Critical and energy transition minerals in Argentina: mineral potential and challenges for strengthening public institutions

Abstract

Abstract The energy transition will be mineral-intensive and the global demand for critical and energy transition minerals (ETMs) is expected to substantially rise. That will generate development opportunities and risks of intensified adverse socio-environmental impacts in mineral-rich countries like Argentina. In this article, we provide a review of Argentina's mineral potential for critical and ETMs and explore pathways for the country to strengthen its governance. Our results indicate that copper and lithium are the minerals with the largest potential in the short term. For other ETMs, such as nickel or cobalt, potential exists but it remains underexplored. We argue that although responsible sourcing initiatives and rising environmental, social and governance standards have an important role to play, the great challenge ahead for the country lies in strengthening its public institutions for sustainability as these constitute a cornerstone for responsible mining practices. This includes strengthening of environmental institutions and water governance, new models of public participation and decision-making and policies for the development of local suppliers in key areas such as water governance. Addressing such challenges should be grounded on a vision of mining as a platform for broad-based development under co-operation with other sectors and the domestic science, technology and innovation system.