Critical minerals, including rare earth elements, lithium, cobalt, and others,
are crucial for manufacturing high-tech devices, electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and
various defence applications.

This shift towards critical minerals is driven by several factors:

1. Rising Demand for Green Technologies: As the world moves towards cleaner energy sources
   and technologies, the demand for minerals essential in batteries, solar panels, and wind
   turbines is soaring.
2. Geopolitical Considerations: Many critical minerals are concentrated in specific
   geographical locations, often in countries with unstable political climates. This creates a
   need for diversified supply chains and increased domestic production in other countries to
   ensure stable access.
3. Technological Advancements in Mining: Innovations in mining technologies are making it
   more feasible to extract these minerals efficiently and in an environmentally friendly
   manner.
4. Government Policies and Investments: Many governments are now prioritizing the mining
   of critical minerals, recognizing their strategic importance. This includes funding for
   exploration, development of sustainable mining practices, and creating frameworks for
   secure supply chains.
5. Economic Growth and Urbanization: The ongoing global economic growth and urbanization,
   especially in developing countries, are increasing the consumption of electronics, which in
   turn boosts the demand for these minerals.

Overall, the focus on critical minerals in the mining sector is a strategic response to the changing
needs of the global economy, particularly in the realms of sustainable energy and technological
development.