Space is the next frontier when it comes to mining, with companies eyeing up the lunar surface and asteroids for precious resources. We dig into the regulation of space mining, including some of the uncertainty surrounding off-planet extraction rights. 

We also examine lithium battery safety, exploring how it can be improved across the supply chain, from design to recycling. Plus, we evaluate how lithium mining has impacted indigenous communities living in Argentina, Bolivia and Chile. 

In commodities we look at the supply and demand projections for copper and how geopolitics is impacting the market. GlobalData also analyses China’s investment in critical minerals, copper and nickel. Finally, we look at how unconventional resources – from coal ash to mine tailings - are being tapped for critical minerals.

Caroline Peachey, editor