The Tasmanian Critical Minerals Strategy has been released

The Tasmanian Critical Minerals strategy has four objectives to:

Grow exploration for critical minerals.

Support for critical minerals projects.

Increase on-Island processing and value-adding of critical minerals.

Increase Tasmania’s trade and investment footprint in critical minerals.

The Strategy will be supported through existing initiatives, such as the EDGI co-funding drilling program, and the new Critical Minerals Initiative, as announced in the 2024/25 State budget.

https://www.mrt.tas.gov.au/news/the_tasmanian_critical_minerals_strategy_has_been_released

Overstating Economic and Strategic Value

The Tasmanian Critical Minerals Strategy overlooks the significant global advancements in rare earth element (REE) sourcing, particularly the groundbreaking discovery of abundant REEs in coal ash. Recent research led by The University of Texas at Austin reveals that decades of accumulated coal ash hold enough rare earth elements to substantially bolster the international supply without any new mining.

 

https://www.labrujulaverde.com/en/2024/11/scientists-discovered-coal-ash-contains-rare-earth-elements-in-sufficient-quantities-for-modern-technology-reducing-dependence-on-china/

 

https://youtu.be/YVWW6EB5Z40?si=FErfyVdwENg3_EzG

 

As co-lead author Bridget Scanlon noted, this discovery exemplifies the "trash to treasure" approach by recovering valuable resources from waste while simultaneously reducing environmental impacts.

 

This discovery highlights a shift away from traditional mining as the primary method of securing REEs, emphasizing innovative approaches that repurpose waste materials. In this context, the economic and strategic rationale for Tasmania to invest heavily in costly and environmentally taxing mining operations becomes highly questionable. It underscores the need for Tasmania to reconsider its competitive positioning in an evolving market that increasingly values sustainability and resource efficiency over traditional extraction methods.

 

In addition to this,  recently a 2.34 billion metric ton deposit of granite containing substantial amounts of rare earth elements in the rugged mountains and canyons of southern Wyoming is said to be one of the largest strikes in the United States. Meaning, they will not be seeking Tasmania's REE.

 

 Counterargument: Assessing the Impact of Mineral Exploration in Tasmania

 

While Tasmania's geological richness is notable, this proposal for intensified mineral exploration warrants careful scrutiny. Here are key points that challenge the narrative presented in The Tasmanian Critical Minerals strategy.

1. Environmental Impact and ESG Claims
   The assertion of "deeply embedded environment, social, and governance (ESG) principles" is inconsistent with the realities of mining. Mining, especially for rare earth elements and other critical minerals, often results in significant environmental degradation, including habitat destruction, water contamination, and greenhouse gas emissions. Claiming alignment with circular economy principles does not negate the irreversible impact of extracting non-renewable resources.

 

2. Questionable Secondary Prospectivity
   "Secondary prospectivity" from mine wastes, while appealing, is not without challenges. Processing mine waste often involves the use of toxic chemicals and generates further waste streams, complicating efforts to achieve genuine environmental sustainability.

 

3. Economic vs. Community Costs
   The emphasis on economic benefits and infrastructure overlooks the social costs to local communities. Mining activities often lead to disputes over land use, particularly in agricultural regions like Tasmania, where arable land and tourism are critical economic drivers. Displacement of these industries risks long-term economic stability in favour of short-term mining profits.

 

4. Renewable Energy and Mining’s Paradox
   While Tasmania's renewable energy capabilities are commendable, using this energy to support mining operations contradicts sustainability objectives. Clean energy should prioritize industries that enhance Tasmania's green credentials rather than subsidizing energy-intensive mining practices that compromise the environment.

 

5. Infrastructure Burden
   While Tasmania has strong infrastructure for exports, the wear and tear on roads, rail, and ports from mining operations would impose maintenance and expansion costs. These costs often fall to taxpayers, undermining public trust and diverting funds from essential services.

 

6. Global Market Oversaturation
   The push for critical minerals and rare earth elements fails to consider fluctuating global demand. Overreliance on mineral exports can expose Tasmania to economic risks, especially as technological advances reduce dependency on certain materials or as international markets shift.
7. Preservation of Tasmania’s Unique Identity Tasmania's economic future lies in preserving its unique international identity—pristine wilderness, thriving agriculture, and eco-tourism. Expanding mining activities jeopardizes these sectors, which are not only sustainable but also align with Tasmania's global reputation as a clean and green destination.

 

Conclusion

Tasmania's wealth does not lie in its mineral deposits but in its ability to steward its natural environment responsibly. Instead of intensifying mining exploration, efforts should focus on supporting industries that enhance long-term environmental health, community well-being, and sustainable economic growth. Let’s not trade Tasmania’s unique natural and cultural heritage for finite and often destructive mineral exploitation.