On 4 July, the UK government launched its first critical minerals intelligence centre to collect and analyse information on the supply of critical minerals. The Critical Minerals Intelligence Centre (CMIC) will be based in Nottingham and will provide policymakers with up-to-date data and analysis on supply, demand, and market dynamics.
The Centre builds on work by the Critical Minerals Expert Group, set up by the government in 2021, to enforce the UK’s expert knowledge on critical minerals, and will be governed by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy, with guidance from an advisory panel of experts. Up to £3.6 million will be available for the CMIC over 3 years.
The British Geological Survey in Nottingham will deliver the programme, providing government with insights on the supply, demand, and market dynamics of critical minerals. Some of the CMIC’s data and insights may be provided to businesses, where it’s appropriate and of benefit to them.
According to Minister for Industry Lee Rowley:
"As the world shifts towards new green technologies, supply chains will become more competitive. That’s why we’re harnessing the British Geological Survey’s vast experience in geoscience, to ensure better access to these crucial resources, and support the delivery of our forthcoming Critical Minerals Strategy."
The UK government will publish a UK Critical Minerals Strategy by the end of 2022.