The push for green energy requires a massive increase in rare earth minerals like lithium, cobalt, and nickel—but sourcing these materials comes with environmental and ethical challenges. Dr. Roopali Phadke, a political scientist and climate policy expert at Macalester College, joins The Young IKE to discuss the ‘green metals dilemma’—a framework for balancing resource needs, energy justice, and sustainability.

We explore whether responsible mining is possible, the role of policy and public engagement, and what it will take to build a circular economy that reduces reliance on mining.

Guest Information:

Guest Name: Dr. Roopali Phadke

Bio: Dr. Roopali Phadke is a professor of environmental policy at Macalester College, specializing in climate solutions, energy transitions, and sustainable mining policies.

Links:

🔹Macalester College Faculty Page – HERE

Episode Outline:

🔹 The ‘Green Metals Dilemma’ – Why green energy depends on mineral extraction and the tough choices we face.

🔹 E-Waste & Urban Mining – The future of electronic waste recycling and circular economies.

🔹 Can Mining Be Sustainable? – The debate over ethical extraction and energy justice.

Episode Sponsor:

🎙️ The Young Ike is bringing these conversations into the real world with live, quarterly community dialogues. Thank you to the Minnesota Valley Chapter of the IWLA for making this possible.

Learn more at iwlamnvalley.org

Host & Show Info:

Host Name: Griffith Pugh

Podcast Website: www.theyoungike.org

Community & Calls to Action:

📩 Contact the host: griffith@theyoungike.org

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