Issue Depletion of finite minerals, metals and fossil fuels

Summary

The Megatrends 2040 report warns that surging use of non-renewable resources will ultimately exhaust natural resources. This would cause a worrying shortage of critical materials such as minerals, metals and fossil fuels, whose reserves are finite. Citing the UN Environment Programme's International Resource Panel, the report adds that this trajectory will also worsen climate change, raise air pollution and reduce biodiversity. The pressure is expected to peak as emerging economies continue to grow and consume more, while WWF data suggest fossil fuel consumption doubles every twenty years. Proposed responses include research on alternative raw materials, stronger resource regulation, a circular economy and strategic autonomy.