Extraction of raw materials to rise by 60% by 2060, says UN report

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🗞️ Driving the news: A yet-to-be-published UN analysis reveals a predicted 60% increase in global raw material extraction by 2060, significantly impacting the climate and environment
• The report, seen by the Guardian, attributes this surge to industrialization, urbanization, and population growth

🔭 The context: Since 1970, natural resource extraction has increased nearly 400%
• The current exploitation of Earth's resources contributes to 60% of global heating impacts, 40% of air pollution, over 90% of water stress, and extensive biodiversity loss

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: The report warns that this level of resource extraction will intensify climate disasters like storms and droughts
• It emphasizes the need for systemic resource efficiency and prioritizes human wellbeing and equity over mere GDP growth

⏭️ What's next: The report suggests solutions like remote working, improved local services, and low-carbon transport to reduce environmental impacts
• It also stresses the importance of demand-side measures in EU policies and the necessity of a green and equitable future

💬 One quote: "Decarbonisation without decoupling economic growth and wellbeing from resource use and environmental impacts is not a convincing answer," (Janez Potočnik, co-chair of the UN panel)

📈 One stat: Material and energy needs for mobility could be reduced by over 40% and for construction by about 30% by 2060, as per the report

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