Fundamentals of Economic Geology for Understanding Critical Materials, Sustainability, Circular Economy, and Renewable Energy-related Issues

Presented by: George J. Simandl and Laura Simandl

Gain the essential knowledge you need to make informed decisions in today’s fast-changing world.

This course explores the fundamentals of economic geology and mineral economics, with increased attention on critical raw materials essential for the transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy, national defense, and the economic well-being of industrialized nations.

It also examines constraints on supply chain security, as well as key concepts of sustainability and the circular economy. This is achieved by integrating information on mineral markets (tonnage and unit price), by considering geological, mineralogical, and metallurgical limitations on resource availability. The analysis also considers economies of scale and the impacts of companion metal extraction (smelter credits versus penalties). Shifts in supply and demand, technological innovations, commercialization factors, material substitution, and social and environmental constraints are illustrated through relevant examples.
Intended audience: decision-makers from the mineral industry, government, First nation communities, and students in mineral resource–related fields.