Part I: Unearthing Green Tech

Discover the complex journey of minerals in the latest episode of From the Ground Up, a podcast from the University of Chicago Public Policy Podcasts. In this episode, we dive into the process that turns minerals into green technology like solar panels and EV batteries, exploring how companies find mineral deposits and prepare to mine them. We discuss the exploration and discovery phases, the importance of community engagement, and the concept of social license to operate (SLOs). Additionally, we touch on the challenges communities face in negotiating with mining companies, the rise of community development agreements (CDAs), and how policy can impact the mining industry. Join us as we uncover the often-overlooked world behind the products we use daily, and learn how mining can be made more equitable and sustainable.