Critical metals such as copper, cobalt, gallium, indium, rare earth and platinum group metals are increasingly in global demand as the needed raw materials for low-carbon technologies such as windmill generators, solar panels, batteries, magnets, and electric vehicles. UK and India face similar challenges in terms of building supply chain resilience in critical minerals as they are largely dependent on just few countries for the sourcing of critical materials in their finished forms. There is recognition in both countries of the importance of building supply chain resilience in this area with both countries having released critical mineral strategies.

This workshop aimed to explore research & innovation excellence and challenges in both countries in critical mineral exploration & extraction to identify opportunities for collaboration & help build relationships between the UK & Indian research and industry communities.