UN findings on human costs of critical mineral mining for clean energy

The global transition to cleaner energy, digital technologies, and other advanced systems relies on critical minerals. However, mining in many communities has left water polluted and health outcomes poorer, creating what observers describe as 'sacrifice zones'.

A United Nations report titled 'Critical Minerals, Water Insecurity and Injustice' warns of a hidden crisis in vulnerable regions where mining depletes water supplies, damages health, and deepens inequality as these minerals power the transition amid the push toward clean energy and digital technologies.