A new London-based global research centre aims to promote Indigenous rights and build a more equitable society through the clean energy transition.
The Rio Tinto Centre for Future Materials connects the Australian National University (ANU) with researchers and industry worldwide.
ANU First Nations Vice-President Peter Yu said ANU is the only Australian institution involved and will advise on key aspects of the centre’s work.
“The sense of urgency around this work is not just about climate change or the mineral demand for replacing fossil fuels,” Professor Yu said. “It is equally rooted in fostering Indigenous rights and creating a more equitable society for all.”
Funded by a $150m Rio Tinto investment over 10 years, the centre aims to help the global community reach net zero by 2050. It will focus on sustainable sourcing, processing, and recycling of materials.
Imperial College London will lead the centre in collaboration with global institutions, including the University of British Columbia and UC Berkeley.
Rio Tinto’s Chief Innovation Officer Dan Walker said it is crucial to meet rising demand for clean energy materials while minimising environmental impacts and ensuring Indigenous communities have a voice.
In doing so, First Nations Australians will can enjoy the economic benefits of developing and producing renewable energy such as solar – as 60% of Australia’s renewable projects are already on First Nations territory.
Vice-Chancellor Genevieve Bell said ANU will contribute a strong First Nations perspective at every level.
The centre’s initial focus is copper, which is essential for electrification but in critically short supply. ANU Professor Caitlin Byrt emphasised the importance of responsible research to meet these challenges.
“This partnership enables multidisciplinary teams to deliver innovations that support critical resource security and environmental remediation,” she said.
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