2 - Mineral resource depletion assessment

Abstract

This chapter analyses the state of depletion of the Earth’s mineral resources. It first examines the production trend of the main mineral commodities produced in the world between 1900 and 2008. The scarcity of minerals is first assessed statically through the well-known reserves to production ratio. This approach is then complemented by a dynamic assessment of mineral resource depletion, using the Hubbert peak model applied to a selection of building materials. Finally, a methodology is presented that includes a material scarcity factor in common accounting practices used in assessing construction projects.