Part 8/9:
A notable issue arises concerning the sourcing of cobalt, essential in battery production. Here, the conversation dives deeper as it highlights the ethical concerns around mining practices in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Government intervention, such as the proposed EV Fair Trade Act, aims to ensure ethical sourcing, but the focus on EVs opens a broader conversation—and critique—on the oil industry’s ethical sourcing practices as well.
The role of cobalt in both EV batteries and refining gasoline introduces a paradox, underscoring the need for a more balanced discussion around resource sourcing across all industries.