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From smartphones and electric cars to solar panels and wind turbines, critical minerals drive the technology we rely on daily. As the world transitions toward a low-carbon economy, demand for these essential resources is soaring. But managing critical minerals responsibly matters just as much as meeting demand.

How innovative approaches are shaping sustainable mining and energy

 

We partner with clients in the mining, power, oil, and gas sectors to deliver the full value of critical minerals throughout their lifecycles. From exploration and evaluation, through operational optimization, to thoughtful closure and land rehabilitation, we help identify, recover, and manage critical minerals innovatively and responsibly, while creating new revenue streams. Here’s how our teams at Arcadis have put these strategies into action for our clients.

 

Case study 1: maximizing value and ensuring sustainable mine closure

 

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The challenge

A global mining company wanted to maximize the recovery of base metals and other critical minerals from materials already mined and milled. This is part of the company’s broader initiative to realize the value of these existing materials and support sustainable mine closure plans.
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The solution

We performed a comprehensive evaluation of the mine’s ore and waste streams, identifying untapped critical mineral resources. To recover minerals from mine wastewater, we helped pilot innovative water treatment technologies, turning what was once seen as liability into a new source of income.
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The impact

This enabled the client to recover more resources and generate less waste, reducing overall closure costs. The project also provided a blueprint for other mines to close with a lighter environmental footprint.

 

Case study 2: recovering rare earth elements from industrial byproducts

 

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The challenge

An energy and chemicals company wanted to see if rare earth elements (REEs) could be recovered from stored industrial byproducts. While vital for energy transition technologies like electric vehicles and wind turbines, REEs are limited and often come with environmental challenges.
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The solution

We conducted a phased assessment of the byproduct stockpiles, including sampling and REE recovery feasibility studies. Applying our multidisciplinary engineering expertise, we mapped out a safe and compliant process for extracting these elements while minimizing waste.
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The impact

Our approach enabled our client to make informed decisions about resource recovery from legacy materials, balancing environmental priorities with long-term business gains.

 

Case study 3: unlocking value from mine waste during closure

 

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The challenge

As part of its closure strategy, a gold mine sought innovative ways to offset the cost of rehabilitating mined land and treating water by exploring the potential presence of critical minerals in its mine wastes.
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The solution

We conducted site investigations and sampling to characterize the presence of valuable mineral potentials and recommended ways to integrate mineral recovery into closure planning, supporting both the client’s financial and sustainability goals.
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The impact

These strategic insights helped guide investment decisions on land rehabilitation while reducing long-term risks.

 

Case study 4: supporting sustainable operations in active mines

 

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The challenge

A gold mine with complex geology and water treatment issues sought ways to recover valuable minerals from its ore and leftover materials. REEs, cobalt, and nickel are essential for batteries and electronics, and their importance is growing as sustainable mining becomes a priority.
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The solution

We collaborated with the client’s research and development team to identify resource recovery opportunities. We also designed pilot studies to test whether these recovery methods were technically sound and economically feasible.
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The impact

The project enhanced the client’s environmental performance and advanced a circular economy approach to mining.

 

Case study 5: exploring new opportunities in phosphate and lithium

 

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The challenge

Clients in phosphate and lithium mining needed reliable, early-phase evaluations of mineral extractions. These minerals are vital for applications such as food security (phosphate) and clean transportation (lithium).
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The solution

We delivered quick-turnaround evaluations and technical support for critical mineral recovery, helping clients make informed investment decisions and reduce project risks.
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The impact

This sped up development for new critical mineral projects, supporting progress toward more efficient and sustainable operations.

 

Two people sitting at a desk in an office setting, reviewing documents together while working on a laptop.
On-Demand Webinar:

Unlocking the value from critical minerals

In our webinar in partnership with Environment+Energy Leader, Arcadis and Mosaic Water Systems experts explore ways to turn resources and byproducts into opportunities.

Learn more

 

Looking ahead: partnering for smarter resource recovery

 

We co-create solutions with companies in the mining and energy sectors to design strategies that balance business goals with environmental responsibility. We provide:

  • Critical mineral resource assessments
  • Feasibility studies and technical evaluations
  • Innovative water treatment for mineral recovery
  • Waste valorization and circular economy solutions
  • Environmental permitting and regulatory compliance
  • Sustainable closure and reclamation strategies

Note: All case studies have been anonymized to protect client confidentiality.

Authors
Jeffrey Giillow
Technical Expert / Vice President at Arcadis
Topics
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