Peak minerals

Question 1

What is the definition of peak minerals?

Answer 1

Peak minerals are when the maximum rate of extraction of a mineral resource is reached

Question 2

What is the difference between Peak minerals and Peak Oil?

Answer 2

Oil cannot be recycled while minerals and metals can

Question 3

What are Reserves?

Answer 3

Mineral deposits that are economically feasible to extract at current market prices and with existing technology

Question 4

What factors influence whether a mineral deposit is considered a reserve?

Answer 4

Grade and Price

Question 5

What impact does fracking had on Peak Oil predictions?

Answer 5

Led to a rebound in US oil production, challenging the initial accuracy of Hubbert’s Peak Oil predictions

Question 6

What is the trend in gold grade?

Answer 6

Gold grade is decreasing

Question 7

Is there a potential for a Peak in Phosphate production?

Answer 7

Some studies suggest that a peak in phosphate production could occur in the coming decades. However, the discovery of new reserves, like those in Morocco, can offset this peak.

Question 8

What are the environmental concerns related to Phosphate?

Answer 8

Excess phosphorus from fertilizers can lead to eutrophication in lakes and coastal areas, causing algal blooms and oxygen depletion

Question 9

What are potential solutions to address Phosphate related challenges?

Answer 9

• Recycling phosphorus from waste products
• Improving efficiency in phosphorus production and use
• Exploring alternative agricultural practices

Question 10

What are the three main types of lithium deposits?

Answer 10

• Pegmatite deposits and related metasomatic rocks
• Lithium-rich hectorite clays from volcanic deposits - Salar evaporites and geothermal deposits.

Question 10

How has Lithium use changed over time?

Answer 10

Increased, especially with the the rise of rechargeable batteries

Question 11

Are long term lithium shortages predicted?

Answer 11

No

Question 12

Is copper production nearing a peak?

Answer 12

No

Question 13

What is the importance of recycling in the context of mineral resource?

Answer 13

Recycling plays a crucial role in mitigating resource depletion. Increased recycling can significantly reduce the need for primary mineral extraction.

Question 14

What are the key arguments made by Ragnarsdottir & Sverdrup (2015) regarding resource limits?

Answer 14

• World is approaching its resource limits
• Resource-backed economic growth is unsustainable
• Advocate for systemic recycling

Question 15

What is the impact of the transition to green energy on mineral demand?

Answer 15

Will require a significant increase in mineral extraction, particularly for lithium, graphite, and cobalt used in energy storage.