Copper has been outlined as a strategic metal across many jurisdictions around the world, with a government agency describing the metal as underpinning the global clean energy transition.
Defined as a strategic metal by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Institute (CSIRO) – metals essential to a country’s economy, security and technological advancement – copper has been earmarked as the “linchpin” of global energy transition efforts for its use in energy infrastructure such as power grids, electric vehicles and wind turbines.
It’s strategic importance is also felt in the amount of metal needed for these systems, with energy technologies requiring up to five times more copper than conventional apparatus, according to the CSIRO.
This is due to its exceptional electrical and thermal conductivity – making it “indispensable” for many technologies, including laptops and mobile phones, but also helpful in moving to clean energy.
The International Energy Agency projects that copper demand for clean energy could nearly double by 2050, driven by the electrification of transport and the expansion of renewable power generation.
Not only is the metal in-demand, it’s also useful in hitting sustainability targets – with copper one of the most recyclable materials on the planet.
“Nearly one-third of global copper demand is met through recycling. This recyclability is central to copper’s contribution to sustainability and the circular economy, minimising the need for new mining and lowering the environmental footprint of copper production,” CSIRO sustainability lead for mineral resources Vinicius Louro said.
“Copper’s strategic importance is further underscored by its role in enabling energy efficiency and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”
With vast copper deposits across Australia, the country is set to benefit from both rising demand globally as well as the metal’s ability to hit sustainability goals.
“By embracing innovation, recycling, and sustainable mining, we can ensure that these vital resources continue to power the world’s energy transition, supporting technological progress and environmental stewardship that define our era,” Louro said.
Copper is considered a strategic metal in countries including Australia and Brazil – with Canada, Chile, India and South Korea classifying copper as a critical mineral.
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