A few stories about critical minerals have dominated the news lately: “We must mine to save the planet;” “China is taking over rare-earth elements;” “EVs are leading the green revolution.” These stories lay the groundwork for a future that is unquestionably mining intensive. However, does every mine need to be built?

The proposed lithium mine in Gaston County, North Carolina, has not broken ground and it’s already causing significant disruptions for residents. So how dangerous is the idea of a mine?

Mining for the Climate is a co-creation of Nate Otjen and Juan Manuel Rubio. It’s a production of Blue Lab at Princeton University.

Episode Credits

Written by Juan Manuel Rubio

Hosted by Juan Manuel Rubio

Sound design by Juan Manuel Rubio

Research and production team: Max Widmann, Alex Norbrook, Grace Wang, Nate Otjen and Juan Manuel Rubio

Music by Purple Planet (www.purple-planet.com) and Pryor Meadows

Audio Clip Credits

A Look At Lithium Mining, CNN, 2022

Behind the First All-Electric Truck Company, Rivian, CBS Mornings, 2022

Chevron Back in Court for Worst Case of Oil Pollution on the Planet, The Real News Network, 2015

Critical Mineral Mining Sees Unprecedented Growth Fueled by Clean Energy Demand, CNBC, 2023

How Critical Minerals Are Vital to the Climate Fight, ABC News, 2022

In Major Win for Indigenous Rights, Ecuador Votes to Ban Oil Drilling in Protected Amazon Lands, Democracy Now, 2023

Last Look: The Green Transition Will Trigger a New Race for Natural Resources, CNN, 2022

Neighbors Speak out against Piedmont Lithium Mine Plan, 2021 Special Report : Inside the Congo Cobalt Mines That Exploit Children, Sky News, 2017

Copyright 2023 Nate Otjen, Juan Manuel Rubio and Blue Lab. All rights reserved.