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resource depletion

China exports 85% of the world's rare earth elements. [197] [198]

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World peak copper production is expected to be reached by 2030. [199]

There are expected to be enough lithium reserves to last for at least the next 100 years, but rapidly increasing demand for lithium may shorten lithium reserves' lifespan. [200] [201]

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 Global Li production according to country and ore paragenesis: rock versus brine circa 2008. [200]

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The global assessment for 62 metals, 2008 epoch, global level, in criticality space. The highest level of criticality is at 100, 100, 100 (Back Right Top). The metals assigned to the several groupings are indicated in color on the periodic table. [202]

Recycling of lithium is expected to contribute the bulk of lithium demand by 2050, but is currently negligible. [203]

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 Projected lithium supply and demand by continent. (a) Case 1; (b) Case 2; (c) Case 3. [203]

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