During London Climate Action Week on July 5, 2023, experts gathered to address the future of mineral governance and its implications for resource-rich developing countries. The event highlighted the need for equitable partnerships in the critical minerals sector to ensure a just energy transition.
Understanding the Future of Mineral Governance
The session titled "Minerals governance – what’s next?" featured insights from Celine Kauffman of IDDRI, Patrick Schröder from Chatham House, and Sascha Raabe of UNIDO. Moderated by Chloé Farand from Climate Home News, discussions revolved around the G7 outcomes and the steps necessary for the G7 and G20 to advance responsible mining practices. The UK’s upcoming G20 presidency in 2027 was emphasized as a pivotal opportunity to drive this agenda forward.
Addressing Human Rights in Mining
Another significant session focused on tracking allegations of abuse in mining for transition minerals, led by Phil Bloomer from the Business and Human Rights Centre and Ketakandriana Rafitoson of the Resource Justice Network. They unveiled the 2026 Transition Minerals Tracker update, which includes crucial data regarding human rights abuses linked to the extraction of minerals such as bauxite, cobalt, and lithium.
The Role of Finance in Responsible Mining
The discussion titled "Can finance clean up mining?" featured Stephen Barrie from the Church of England Pensions Board, Pavel Laberko of the Emerging Markets Investors Alliance, and Margaux Day from Accountability Counsel. This session examined how investors can raise environmental and social standards in mining. The panel debated whether divestment or stronger oversight from civil society would be more effective in promoting responsible practices.
Defining Equitable Mineral Partnerships
As demand for critical minerals increases, defining what equitable mineral partnerships should look like became a focal point. Experts Eric Ngang from African Resources Watch, Thomas Scurfield of NRGI, and Tobias Musonda from Zambia discussed the risks of repeating past extractive models. They explored what it takes to move from principle to practice, emphasizing the importance of justice in mineral supply chains.
The event concluded with remarks from Amir Shafaie of NRGI, reiterating the importance of these discussions for achieving a just energy transition.
🤖 This article was rewritten by Feed and Figures' editorial AI from a report originally published by Climate Home News. Facts and quotes are preserved from the original; the rewrite focuses on clarity and structure. For the unedited original, see the source link below.
