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DRC Cobalt Producers Seek Fairer Terms at International Industry Meeting

BusinessWorldEnvironment1h ago
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A major international cobalt meeting was held in Madrid this month, hosted by the Cobalt Institute and sponsored by major mining companies. A civil society leader from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which produces 70% of the world's cobalt, spoke at the event, highlighting the country's central role in the supply chain for electric vehicle and renewable energy batteries.

Facts First

  • The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) produces approximately 70% of the world's cobalt, a mineral essential for electric vehicle and renewable energy batteries.
  • A major international cobalt meeting was held in Madrid from May 13-15, hosted by the U.K.-based Cobalt Institute.
  • The conference was sponsored by mining companies including Glencore, IXM, and CMOC Group Limited.
  • Robert Agenong’a, a politician and civil society leader from DRC's Ituri Province, spoke to Mongabay at the meeting.

What Happened

The U.K.-based Cobalt Institute hosted a major international cobalt meeting in Madrid from May 13-15. The conference was sponsored by mining companies Glencore, IXM, and CMOC Group Limited. Robert Agenong’a, a politician and civil society leader from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)'s Ituri Province, spoke to Mongabay at the event.

Why this Matters to You

Cobalt is an essential mineral for the batteries used in electric vehicles and renewable energy technologies. The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) produces approximately 70% of the world's supply, meaning its policies and stability could influence the availability and cost of these technologies globally.

What's Next

The presence of a DRC civil society leader at a major industry conference suggests a continued dialogue between producers and international stakeholders. This engagement may lead to further discussions about the terms and conditions of cobalt extraction and trade.

Perspectives

“
Social and Environmental Advocates argue that the global pursuit of green energy minerals risks replicating exploitative extractive patterns that prioritize supply chains over the 'environmental harms, the social impacts, and the communities' grievances' in the DRC.
“
Critics of Corporate Influence condemn the increasing 'corporate capture' of the Democratic Republic of Congo's critical minerals sector.