Implications of the pandemic-induced electronic equipment demand surge on essential technology metals

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing lockdowns has drastically altered modern life. Increased use of telecommuting for work, education, and leisure has led to a surge in demand for electronic products, which has strained both global manufacturing supply chains and upstream mineral stocks and resources. In this paper, we discuss a prospective research and policy agenda that covers the technological, socio-economic, and regulatory aspects needed for an accelerated transition towards enhanced mineral resource efficiency and improved electronic waste management during the pandemic and its aftermath.

Keywords

• COVID-19
• Supply chains
• Technology metals
• Resource depletion
• Electronic waste
• Planned obsolescence