Clean energy demand must secure sustainable nickel supply

Abstract

Unprecedented demand for critical energy transition metals will expand global mineral supply and reshape commodity landscapes. We discuss the opportunity for demand signals to discern the nature of supply development and create incentives for sustainable production in the long term. We focus on global nickel supply and outline the nickel industry’s challenges in aligning economic incentives and socio-ecological impacts as it responds to growing demand. We explore the evolving role of Indonesia in the nickel and battery supply chain and envision how discerning demand structures can influence regional production priorities. We argue that discerning demand signals must be translated into responsible practices with effective standards to support low-impact nickel processing. To this end, coordinated minerals policy, harmonized governance mechanisms, and inclusive decision-making processes will be essential.