Episode 1: White Gold Rush Mining for the Climate

A few stories about critical minerals have dominated the news lately: “We must mine to save the planet;” “China is taking over rare-earth elements;” “EVs are leading the green revolution.” These stories lay the groundwork for a future that is unquestionably mining intensive. However, does every mine need to be built?
The proposed lithium mine in Gaston County, North Carolina, has not broken ground and it’s already causing significant disruptions for residents. So how dangerous is the idea of a mine?
Mining for the Climate is a co-creation of Nate Otjen and Juan Manuel Rubio. It’s a production of Blue Lab at Princeton University.
Episode Credits
Written by Juan Manuel Rubio
Hosted by Juan Manuel Rubio
Sound design by Juan Manuel Rubio
Research and production team: Max Widmann, Alex Norbrook, Grace Wang, Nate Otjen and Juan Manuel Rubio
Music by Purple Planet (www.purple-planet.com) and Pryor Meadows
Audio Clip Credits
A Look At Lithium Mining, CNN, 2022
Behind the First All-Electric Truck Company, Rivian, CBS Mornings, 2022
Chevron Back in Court for Worst Case of Oil Pollution on the Planet, The Real News Network, 2015
Critical Mineral Mining Sees Unprecedented Growth Fueled by Clean Energy Demand, CNBC, 2023
How Critical Minerals Are Vital to the Climate Fight, ABC News, 2022
In Major Win for Indigenous Rights, Ecuador Votes to Ban Oil Drilling in Protected Amazon Lands, Democracy Now, 2023
Last Look: The Green Transition Will Trigger a New Race for Natural Resources, CNN, 2022
Neighbors Speak out against Piedmont Lithium Mine Plan, 2021 Special Report : Inside the Congo Cobalt Mines That Exploit Children, Sky News, 2017
Copyright 2023 Nate Otjen, Juan Manuel Rubio and Blue Lab. All rights reserved.