Tracing metal footprints via global renewable power value chains
Rao Fu1, Kun Peng1, Peng Wang2
1Institute of Blue and Green Development, Shandong University, Weihai, 264209, P. R. China.
Nature Communications
|June 22, 2023
Summary
Global renewable power demand surged 97% from 2005-2015, increasing metal footprints. Developed nations offshore metal-intensive production, necessitating greener supply chains for a just energy transition.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Economics
- Materials Science
Background:
- The renewable power industry's rapid growth drives demand for critical metals.
- Global renewable power value chains (RPVCs) are complex, involving diverse economies.
- Identifying metal supply for renewable energy is challenging due to intricate value chains.
Purpose of the Study:
- To trace metal footprints (MFs) and value-added within global renewable power sectors.
- To analyze metal flows and economic contributions across RPVCs.
- To inform strategies for sustainable metal sourcing in the renewable energy transition.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a multi-regional input-output (MRIO) model.
- Employed value chain decomposition analysis.
- Quantified metal footprints and value-added for major economies' renewable power sectors (2005-2015).
Main Results:
- Global renewable power demand's metal footprints increased by 97% between 2005 and 2015.
- Developed economies dominate high-value segments, while developing nations handle metal-intensive, lower-value production.
- China's growing renewable power demand significantly contributes to embodied metal transfers.
Conclusions:
- Urgent need for metal-efficient and green supply chains in the renewable power sector.
- Establishing sustainable upstream and downstream processes is crucial for a just energy transition.
- Addressing metal intensity disparities across RPVCs is vital for global sustainability.
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