FAQs Archive

Q: A.2 Can recycling replace the need for deep sea minerals?

Recycling can be a part of the solution, as metals are highly reusable, but it is insufficient. A new electric vehicle (EV) won't be scrapped for 10 to 15 years. Its battery pack, while no longer able to power a vehicle, can last 15 to 20 years and may find a second life by storing wind or solar energy before being recycled. The International Energy Agency forecasts that the secondary supply of batteries and the reuse of nickel will represent just 3% of total demand in 2030 and 10% in 2040. To help close the demand gap, mining for new metals will still be essential.

Q: A.1 Why do we need more critical minerals than what we mine on land today?

The demand for nickel, cobalt, copper, and manganese, materials crucial for producing advanced technologies in defense, energy, and infrastructure, has skyrocketed. Projections from the World Bank indicate that demand for these metals will increase by 500% by 2050 , raising concerns about their availability and sustainability on a global scale . Without deep-sea minerals, 388 new mines must be built by 2030 to provide the necessary minerals to meet this demand.

A.4 Will new battery chemistries eliminate the need for deep sea minerals?

A.3 Can reducing demand replace the need for metal mining?

A.2 Can recycling replace the need for deep sea minerals?

A.1 Why do we need more critical minerals than what we mine on land today?

Impossible Metals

STAY INFORMED

Connect with Us

Policies

STAY INFORMED

Connect with Us

Impossible Metals

Policies