What's Happening
In May 2026, the Chamber of Deputies approved a bill (PL) that institutes the National Policy on Critical and Strategic Minerals (PNMCE). The proposal, which is now being processed in the Federal Senate, is the first specific regulatory milestone for the sector in Brazil. The country holds the second largest reserve of rare earths — one of the so-called critical minerals —, with around 21 million tons. This quantity is equivalent to 23% of the global total, according to the United States Geological Survey.
However, researchers argue that PL 2780/2024 presents several problems in its conception. Experts consulted by Mongabay understand that the project expands incentives for mineral extraction without strengthening effective mechanisms for nature protection.
Why It Matters
The debates arise amidst the global fever for critical minerals. The trend gains strength as elements like lithium, nickel, and copper, among others, become indispensable for the production of batteries, solar panels, and wind turbines, central structures for energy transition. Military equipment and semiconductors (currently highlighted by the 'boom' of artificial intelligence) also enter into this account.
Ricardo Assis Gonçalves, a professor of geography and researcher on mining issues at the State University of Goiás (UEG), views with concern the advancement of the project without the creation of environmental countermeasures. “Brazil is marked by a predatory mining model of waters, ecosystems, landscapes, and workers' health. It is an activity intensive in energy and water consumption, fundamentally aimed at the export of minerals, deepening economic dependence and environmental degradation”.
The Science Behind Critical Mineral Mining
Critical mineral mining is a complex process that involves the extraction of minerals from the earth. These minerals are essential for the production of clean technologies, such as electric vehicle batteries and solar panels. However, the extraction of these minerals can have significant environmental impacts, including water pollution, soil degradation, and loss of biodiversity.
Furthermore, critical mineral mining can also have social impacts, such as the removal of local communities and the violation of human rights. It is fundamental that Brazil develops a mining policy that balances economic needs with environmental and social needs.
Broader Context
Critical mineral mining is not a problem exclusive to Brazil. Countries around the world are facing similar challenges related to the extraction of essential minerals for energy transition. The European Union, for example, is developing a critical mineral mining policy that prioritizes sustainability and environmental responsibility.
However, Brazil has a unique opportunity to lead the way in how critical mineral mining is done. With the second largest reserve of rare earths worldwide, the country can set a high standard for the extraction of minerals in a responsible and sustainable manner.
What's Next
With the bill being processed in the Federal Senate, it is fundamental that lawmakers consider the environmental and social concerns related to critical mineral mining. This includes the creation of effective mechanisms for nature protection and the implementation of policies that promote environmental and social responsibility in mining.
Furthermore, it is important that the Brazilian government develops a critical mineral mining policy that is transparent, participatory, and based on scientific evidence. This includes conducting environmental and social impact studies, consulting local communities, and implementing measures to mitigate the negative impacts of mining.
Conclusions and Recommendations
In summary, critical mineral mining is a complex challenge that requires a careful and responsible approach. Brazil has the opportunity to lead the way in how critical mineral mining is done, setting a high standard for the extraction of minerals in a responsible and sustainable manner.
We recommend that lawmakers consider the environmental and social concerns related to critical mineral mining and develop a mining policy that balances economic needs with environmental and social needs.
Source / Reference
This article was originally published in Mongabay Brasil.