SDG7: Affordable and Clean Energy

SDG7 calls for universal access to sustainable energy services, a substantial increase in the contribution of renewable sources to the energy mix, and a doubling of energy efficiency measures. 

Energy is central to nearly every major challenge and opportunity the world faces today. Access to energy is critical for education, healthcare, job creation, food production, transportation and enabling information and communications technology. Yet one in five people still lack access to electricity and 3 billion rely on wood, charcoal or animal waste for cooking and heating. Today the majority of the world’s climate emissions can be traced to fossil fuel production, so a managed and timely transition to clean energy is essential.

How is this relevant to mining and metals?

Mining is energy intensive and accounts for almost two per cent of global energy use. It also is a major producer of energy products. While thermal coal contributes to greenhouse gases, uranium has a potentially important role in achieving a low-carbon future. This also holds true for minerals such as lithium or rare earth elements, which are essential for renewable energy technologies alongside steel, copper and aluminium. The industry can also cut its emissions through the adoption of energy efficiencies and the deployment of renewable technologies. The remote location of many mines also offers potential for shared-use energy infrastructure, to enable access to people who would otherwise have none.