Introduction
Efforts to secure a clean energy transition have intensified in recent years, with the United States and European Union seeking to ensure access to essential minerals such as copper, cobalt, lithium, and others needed for the construction of solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, and other technologies.
However, as investment grows, so does conflict throughout the sector. Protests and lawsuits are common at mine sites, which can lead to attacks against human rights and environmental defenders.
The Transition Mineral Tracker Report
Each year, the Business and Human Rights Centre releases the findings of its Transition Mineral Tracker, which monitors allegations of abuse by large-scale mining of minerals such as bauxite, cobalt, copper, lithium, manganese, nickel, iron ore, and zinc.
For 2025, the NGO reviewed 299 mining operations and their owners, counting 329 allegations of abuse — up from 156 the year before — tied to air and water pollution, public health problems, and labor abuse like poor working conditions and union suppression.
Additionally, there were 61 cases of protests, 10 strikes, and 44 lawsuits, according to the report.
Consequences and Repercussions
These allegations of abuse have serious consequences for local communities and the environment.
It is essential that stricter regulations and better communication with local communities be implemented to ensure that mining is carried out in a responsible and sustainable manner.
As Erica Westenberg, director of governance programs at the Natural Resource Governance Institute, said, 'Resilient mineral supply chains can only be built with respect for people, ecosystems, and local benefits'.
Conclusion
The Transition Mineral Tracker report highlights the need for a more responsible and sustainable approach to mining, one that prioritizes human rights and the environment.
It is crucial that governments, companies, and non-governmental organizations work together to ensure that mining is carried out in a way that respects people, ecosystems, and local benefits.
Source / Reference: Mongabay