Post by Luis A. Tercero Espinoza

For almost two decades, the sustainability team at Fraunhofer Institute for Systems and Innovation Research ISI has been exploring the nexus between technological change and raw material demand. Today, I am happy to see the publication of the 4th edition of Rohstoffe für Zukunftstechnologien (Raw Materials for Emerging Technologies), which we prepared together with Fraunhofer IZM on behalf of the Deutsche Rohstoffagentur (DERA), the German Mineral Resources Agency. To me, this study is more than a projection of future material demand: it is an early-warning instrument that helps us understand the material consequences of our technological choices. Whether we discuss the energy transition, digitalization, or industrial resilience – success in these fields ultimately builds on physical materials. Over the years, the study has helped inform discussions in policy, industry, and research about future raw material requirements and potential supply bottlenecks, issues that are as relevant today as when the series began, and that have gained urgency in the current geopolitical context. My thanks go to DERA, whose long-standing commitment has made this work possible and has helped keep the topic of raw material supply security firmly on the agenda. Thanks also to all colleagues at Fraunhofer ISI and Fraunhofer IZM who contributed to this latest edition. The report is available in German only, but the issues it addresses are relevant far beyond Germany. I’m looking forward to continuing this discussion using the latest insights published today.