Sustainability in Extractive Industries

A rapid and thorough transition to zero-emission energy and transport technologies is urgently needed to avoid catastrophic global warming. Renewable technologies—solar panels, wind power, electric vehicles--are highly metals-intensive. Along with expansion of construction and ITC industries, de-carbonization will drive an expanding global demand for copper, aluminum (bauxite), cobalt, and other minerals.

This course has two aims. First, it explores sustainability challenges and solutions in the global metals mining industry. The primary challenges are water risk and human rights. Mining poses risks of long-term heavy metals contamination to both people and eco-systems not just locally but to entire watersheds. It is also water-intensive, pitting mining companies against agricultural and municipal users of increasingly scarce water resources. While they suffer the brunt of environmental risk, local communities often have no voice in accepting or governing a mine, and may receive only a meager share of economic benefits. Nudging metals mining towards sustainability requires innovations in technology, policy, governance, and values.

The second aim of the course is to develop research and writing skills. All students will produce a 20-page case study based on desk research and field interviews. Students will write and receive comments on two drafts before submitting the final case study. The class will meet in two four-hour studio sessions in lieu of regular class time. The time for the studio sessions will be determined consensually in class.