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Relying on foreign sources for critical minerals—especially from nations like China—creates supply chain vulnerabilities, increases costs, and often involves unethical or unsafe mining practices. Domestic production strengthens national security, ensures higher environmental and labor standards, and supports economic independence.
- The International Energy Agency estimates that by 2040, demand for lithium could increase over 40 times, while demand for graphite, cobalt, and nickel could grow by 20-25 times to support electric vehicles and battery storage.
- According to Benchmark Mineral Intelligence more than 300 new mines would be needed worldwide to meet electric vehicle demand alone.
- The U.S. currently has only one active mine producing cobalt, nickel, and lithium—critical for batteries and renewable energy storage.
Relying on foreign sources for critical minerals—especially from nations like China—creates supply chain vulnerabilities, increases costs, and often involves unethical or unsafe mining practices. Domestic production strengthens national security, ensures higher environmental and labor standards, and supports economic independence.
- The International Energy Agency estimates that by 2040, demand for lithium could increase over 40 times, while demand for graphite, cobalt, and nickel could grow by 20-25 times to support electric vehicles and battery storage.
- According to Benchmark Mineral Intelligence more than 300 new mines would be needed worldwide to meet electric vehicle demand alone.
- The U.S. currently has only one active mine producing cobalt, nickel, and lithium—critical for batteries and renewable energy storage.
Alaska’s Role in a Sustainable Future
Alaska has the resources and the regulatory framework to produce essential minerals responsibly:
- Gold, silver, copper, zinc, cobalt, graphite, molybdenum, and more—all vital for clean energy technologies.
- Stringent environmental and safety standards ensure responsible development.
- Collaborative partnerships with communities, Alaska Native corporations, and tribal governments.
