Think Graphite is just for pencils? Think again! Graphite could hold the key to the energy transition with Alaska well-positioned to responsibly lead the way.

For some, zinc might seem like a secondary metal but in reality it is a powerhouse; an indispensable element with a key role touching every corner of the renewable energy sector.

The fourth most used metal in the world, zinc is having a well-deserved moment in the spotlight due to its importance for the future of renewable energy. With the two top producing zinc mines in the United States located in Alaska, this future-focused state has the ability to be a key player in providing the materials needed for the energy transition.

As China tightens its grip on global graphite, Alaska’s Graphite Creek could be a game-changing ace-up-the-sleeve for the United States, relieving reliance on a foreign government for this important element.

Did you know that more than 70% of the cobalt powering our electric vehicles is mined in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, with a significant portion under Chinese control? With its vast mineral deposits, Alaska could be a major player changing the dynamics of domestic mining production.

Alaska has significant mineral resources of copper, zinc, silver, gold, graphite, cobalt, and rare earth elements. These abundant reserves offer considerable potential to enhance U.S. mineral independence.

According to the Critical Minerals list provided by the United States Geological Survey, Alaska is uniquely positioned to help the United States move into an electrified economy and significantly aid domestic manufacturing.

Today, the United States is 100 percent reliant upon other countries for 14 critical minerals. Why is this a concern? Many of the metals needed for weapon systems, consumer products, and a green economy come from governments that don’t always have our nation’s best interests in mind.

The technologies metals make possible have become so integrated into our daily lives, it’s easy to take them for granted. But many scholars, economists, and security specialists are raising warnings that should concern everyone and have us questioning how we source metals.