The Sociopolitical Geology of the Energy Transition: Challenges and Paradoxes in a Fragmented World

Abstract In this paper, paradoxes and challenges of the energy transition are discussed through sociopolitical geology. Transition has been demanded by the environmental movement, but it has started to be opposed by part of it, together with right-wing populists. This societal counter-current forms a political shear zone and a fault line in society. This crack can be amplified by internal and external forces to create chaos and discord. Simultaneously, there is evidence that known global mineral resources are insufficient for the transition, and little new supply can be ramped up in the short term. There is also a disparity in the levels of development in Europe, with more intense resistance towards lithium projects in Serbia and Portugal. Such regions do not want to become “sacrifice zones” for northern European citizens who can afford to to buy electric vehicles. These divergencies create a policy dilemma in the European Union. While the EU looks for greater self-sufficiency of raw materials, it also aims to expand nature protection in its territory. All these indicate that the topic has not been the subject of an inclusive societal discussion. The energy transition requires societal change which cannot be implemented without a wider agreement, while political polarization complicates it significantly. The mining industry needs to improve its performance through responsible target selection with consideration of associated land use, effective stakeholder engagement, dialogue and collaboration, for which community agreements are recommended to be established.