Mineral/Metal Primary Domain(s) & Uses Key Context (Why It's Important Today)
Copper Build (construction), Fuel & Power (electrical grids, renewables), Move (electric vehicles) Central to electrification and renewable energy infrastructure; demand is surging .
Iron Ore Build (steel for buildings and infrastructure) Fundamental for global construction and urbanization .
Gold Make (jewelry, electronics), Financial reserves Traditionally a safe-haven asset; also used in technology and luxury goods .
Lithium, Cobalt, Nickel, Graphite Move (batteries for electric vehicles and electronics) Critical minerals for the rapid growth of electric transportation and energy storage .
Rare Earth Elements (REEs) Make (permanent magnets, electronics, defense), Move (EV motors), Fuel & Power (wind turbines) Essential for high-tech, defense, and green technologies; supply chain is highly concentrated .
Potash & Phosphate Feed (fertilizers for agriculture) Vital for global food security and agricultural productivity .
Coal Fuel & Power (electricity generation) Still accounts for a significant portion of global electricity generation, despite the energy transition .
Aluminum Build (construction), Make (consumer goods, vehicles) Lightweight metal crucial for various manufacturing and construction sectors .
Uranium Fuel & Power (nuclear energy) Key input for nuclear power, which is gaining renewed momentum as a low-carbon energy source .
Zinc, Tin, Manganese Build (steel alloying, corrosion protection), Make (soldier, batteries) Important industrial metals with diverse applications in manufacturing and infrastructure .