2023-07-25-IRENA-能源转型的地缘政治_关键材料（英）_150页_17mb

The IRENA report, "Geopolitics of the Energy Transformation: Critical Materials," examines the supply chains, geopolitical risks, and sustainability challenges associated with critical materials essential for renewable energy technologies. Key materials include lithium, cobalt, nickel, rare earths, graphite, and copper. The report highlights three dynamic trends: physical constraints in supply due to concentration in few regions, disruptive innovation (e.g., battery chemistry shifts), and growing circular economy focus.

Key Findings:

• Supply Concentration: Mining is highly concentrated in specific countries (e.g., Australia for lithium, China for refining). This creates dependency risks, as China dominates processing for many materials.
• Geopolitical Risks: Export restrictions, nationalism, and potential cartelization pose significant threats. Climate events and market manipulation further exacerbate vulnerabilities.
• Environmental/Social Impacts: Extraction harms land, water, and communities, disproportionately affecting indigenous groups and regions with weak governance. Artisanal mining introduces labor concerns.
• Mitigation Strategies: Diversifying supply chains, strategic stockpiling (carefully), enhancing recycling (though secondary supply is long-term), and promoting responsible sourcing are crucial.
• Role of International Cooperation: Regional alliances (e.g., Indonesia's nickel export ban) and initiatives like the Critical Minerals Mapping Initiative foster diversification and transparency.

In addressing critical material needs, the energy transition must balance economic growth with environmental sustainability and human rights to ensure resilience and equity.