Global race to secure critical minerals for weapons threatens climate, warns report

The study found that at least 38 minerals and metals, including lithium, cobalt, graphite and rare earth elements are being stockpiled by the Pentagon. Photograph: Martin Bernetti/AFP/Getty Images

The accelerating global arms race is hindering climate action as critical minerals that are key to a sustainable future are being diverted to make the latest military hardware, according to a report

The study from the Transition Security Project – a joint US and UK venture – reveals how the Pentagon is stockpiling huge stores of critical minerals that are needed for a range of climate technologies including solar panels, wind turbines, electric vehicles and battery storage.