No, Cobalt Is Not a Conflict Mineral

May 5, 2020 | Patricia Ndagano
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Wakanda’s vibranium extolled in Black Panther may be fictional but is not very far from reality. A remarkable metal used in emerging technologies – from cell phones to electric cars – has the potential to create a more responsible and sustainable lifestyle for the global community. Cobalt is expected to become the “new oil” as the world transitions to a low-carbon future.

However, cobalt has faced bad press in the last few years due to human rights violations identified in the mines where it is sourced. Child labour and hazardous working conditions have become associated with its production in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) where about two-thirds of global production occurs.

It has also gained notoriety as a conflict mineral following concerns about other minerals mined in the DRC. But this label is false. It is a view rooted in misinformation and confusion that needs to be fixed.