The US drive for critical minerals is now fueled by national security concerns instead of climate mitigation. Policymakers speak of shoring up global supply chains for these minerals to protect US defenses, an objective that has stoked geopolitical tensions. The old goal of promoting batteries and renewable energy has fallen by the wayside. Host Monica de Bolle is joined by Cullen S. Hendrix (PIIE) to discuss why the Trump administration adjusted its stance on critical minerals, how the globe responded to the new and aggressive approach, and what it means for the green transition.

This podcast is produced by the Peterson Institute for International Economics.

Music by Baegel/When I Hop/Courtesy of Epidemic Sound.

Download the episode transcript [PDF]

Learn more about Cullen S. Hendrix.

Learn more about Monica de Bolle.