Please UNECE as we welcome Payne Institute Faculty Fellow Jessica Smith presenting a virtual seminar titled Critical Raw Materials in Vulnerable Geographies: Impact on Women on Thursday, March 23, 2023.

Organized by the EGRM Women in Resource Management Working Group, co-chaired by Cristina Marras and Maria A. Capello.

The transition to lower carbon energy sources will push the demand for critical raw materials at an unprecedented pace. The shift to a cleaner energy system is set to drive a huge increase in the requirements for Lithium, Nickel, Cobalt, Rare earth elements as well as Copper and Aluminum.

The International Energy Agency states that “a scenario that meets the goals of the Paris Agreement, would mean a quadrupling of mineral requirements for clean energy technologies by 2040”. As countries increase their efforts in reducing emissions, others will proportionally maintain the effects of the increased requirements for critical raw materials. Within these accelerated energy dynamics, it is important to care for the communities and society segments that are impacted the most.

This webinar will be centered on the challenges, frameworks, and opportunities for women in countries and regions that are vulnerable. The speakers will share their insights about women’s participation in the access, development, and management of critical raw materials. We need all hands on deck, for a just transition that provides opportunities for all.

• Khombada Mhopjeni, National Program Officer, UNESCO Namibia, Windhoek Office, and previous manager at Namibia Geological Survey
• Alejandra W. Woods, Director, COLDELCO Corporación Nacional del Cobre de Chile, and CESCO Centro de Estudios del Cobre, Chil
• Dr. Jessica Smith, Professor, Engineering, Design, and Society Dept Colorado School of Mines

The event will be moderated by Alfredo Alvarez Laparte; Energy Segment Leader & Solutions Leader – EY Latin America North at EY.