The Economics of Community Engagement: Opportunities for Critical Minerals Mining

Critical minerals are essential for energy storage, electric vehicles, and the power grid. And as global demand for these materials surges, new mining projects are rapidly moving forward. These projects have far-reaching impacts: reshaping local economies, straining natural resources, and affecting the well-being of the communities where mining takes place.

To better understand and address these consequences, Resources for the Future (RFF) released new research earlier this year on how mining companies can more effectively engage with the communities they operate in. The report found that limited engagement often leads to delays, costly opposition, and long-term risks for both companies and governments. By contrast, more inclusive processes can reduce uncertainty, lower costs, and make investments more durable. In other words, smart community engagement is not just good practice—it’s good economics.

For more than 70 years, RFF has applied independent economic research and analysis to questions like these, where the stakes are high and the trade-offs are complex. As we approach our Founders’ Day on October 8th, we’re honoring our legacy and looking ahead to providing powerful new insights that help leaders make choices that are both economically sound and environmentally responsible.

Your support ensures that RFF can continue to provide the objective economic analysis that leaders need to navigate tough decisions. Together, we can make sure the clean energy transition protects our climate while strengthening the communities and economies that depend on it.