A Rock and A Hard Place Mineral Choices

Join me for part two of my conversation with Erika Ilves, Head of Strategy & Business Development at The Metals Company as we discuss some of the opportunities of deep-sea mining and the real challenges and obstacles still being dealt with politically, socially, and economically in the field.  Erika also provides some insights on how we can begin to engage in thoughtful discussions on where we source our metals and the immense challenges of a metal-intense energy future. With our options limited and timelines for net-zero and energy goals drawing closer, society will need to find answers to these global challenges surrounding mineral supply chains.

Join me on this exciting episode as I speak with Erika Ilves, Head of Strategy & Business Development at The Metals Company, about the fundamentals behind deep-sea mining. We start out discussion off by learning about what deep-sea mining is and the diversity of mineral resources in the ocean. Erika informs viewers on the different types of metal resources found within these deposits and why TMC has decided to focus its efforts on deep-sea nodules. We also discuss the techniques and processes behind extracting nodules from the ocean floor. Erika also begins to discuss the opportunities and challenges that are presented with moving forward with deep-sea mining, busting some of the common myths often have about this type of mining. Most importantly, Erika emphasizes the increasing demand for metals necessary to support the energy transition and why TMC believes deep-sea mining provides a unique alternative to land-based mining operations. Be sure to check out part two next week as we dive deeper into the politics of deep-sea mining and the environmental discourse around the subject. 

Join us for part 2 with Hugh Brown as we identify some of the common challenges in ASM he has observed throughout his travels. We also learn more about how his photography attempts to bring humanity to these important issues, rather than dismissing the reality of millions who depend on the sector to survive. Hugh also provides some commentary on the common ASM myths he often hears and tries to explain how the reality of these challenges are much more complex and difficult to address than simply removing our supply chains from these countries. 

Join us this week as we have Hugh Brown on the podcast, a best selling documentary photographer passionate about telling stories about the artisanal and small-scale mining sector. In this episode, we talk about the power of photography in telling stories about the people involved in this sector and how it is often the case that the images we see in the news and across the world focusing on ASM are typically used for political purposes rather than calls for action to reform and provide opportunity for the millions that depend on the sector.  Hugh also provides some of his personal thoughts on how ASM is discussed in politics and the political obstacles communities face when it comes to sourcing metals. While many calls to action have been made, Hugh provides a critical review of these western countries as his travels have shown a much more complex and concerning reality on the ground. Finally, Hugh provides some common myths about the ASM sector, which he hopes to bust and find ways to open up the public's imaginary around the way these communities can be empowered for a better future rather than negatively targeted for current labor practices. These issues are highly controversial, but Hugh brings in his wealth of travel experience and connection with local communities to try to cut through the rhetoric and really understand how his work can bring awareness of these communities and the true potential they possess in being a key part in the global energy transition. 

Join us for another episode with Courtney Onstad, a PhD candidate at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, Canada. In this episode we discus some of the  best practices and methodologies that should be implemented in the geoscience communication space. Courtney also emphasizes the critical importance of early education and making good impressions with kids who may grow up to solve our future energy and mining challenges. We also discuss the role of mineral literacy organizations and their role in engaging with communities about their natural resources to emphasize why we mine and how it can be done sustainably through community involvement and monitoring. Finally, Courtney shares some thoughts about where the academic field of geoscience communication is headed next and the gaps which need to be filled by young professionals and thought leaders in the mineral and mining sphere. 

On this episode, I am joined by Courtney Onstad, a PhD candidate at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver, Canada, studying geoscience communication. Her research focuses on how science communication theory can inform geoscience communication practice, particularly in informal educational settings. Courtney first defines the concept of geoscience communication and how we can best implement it in a variety of academic, professional and public settings. We also discuss the importance of K-12 education and support when it comes to engaging in dialog about critical minerals and the energy transition. Without strong K-12 support, there will continue to be a gap in workforce development in the geoscience and mining field. Finally, Courtney discusses the difference between science communication and the gaps in literature between science communication and the world of geoscience. The clear take away? How scientists talk about their research and engage with both the public and policymakers is crucial when developing the future workforce and ensuring that critical mineral policy is well informed and promotes sustainable practices for the future.