
About this episode
Can we meet the soaring demand for lithium, a vital metal for electric cars and green energy? Mining is concentrated in a limited number of countries such as Australia and Chile. And with China dominating the manufacture of electric car batteries and already accounting for the importation of a high proportion of raw lithium, it may be difficult for Western countries to secure their own supplies.
With Tanya Beckett. Producer Bob Howard
(A worker checks lithium car batteries at the Xinwangda factory in Nanjing,China on March 12, 2021. AFP via Getty Images)
Get every episode summarized
Each time The Inquiry publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from The Inquiry

Are countries really running out of jet fuel?
The Inquiry

Should we mine the Moon?
The Inquiry

Cycling: Is it time to swap four wheels for two?
The Inquiry

How will countries boycotting Eurovision affect the contest?
The Inquiry