GOLDEN, Colo. — USGS scientists have pioneered a groundbreaking method to evaluate the global risk posed by earthquakes to mineral commodity supplies. This innovative approach emerged from their research on copper and rhenium, but its applicability extends to numerous other essential minerals worldwide.

Understanding the seismic vulnerability of mineral supplies is crucial given the vast quantities of these resources that society relies on for technological, industrial, and economic functions. Traditional approaches have often lacked the precision and global scope needed to fully comprehend the risks. The USGS’s novel methodology addresses these gaps, offering a more comprehensive evaluation tool.

Their research revealed critical insights into the stability of supply chains that are already underpinned by geological data and the frequency of seismic events. By meticulously analyzing copper and rhenium, commodities vital to electronics and aerospace industries respectively, the USGS has laid the groundwork for assessing the resilience of other mineral supplies. This method accounts for the seismic hazards in regions where these minerals are mined, processed, and transported.

The benefits of such a framework are manifold. Policymakers and industry leaders can now access more accurate data to inform risk management strategies, bolster supply chain resilience, and mitigate potential disruptions caused by earthquakes. The research underscores the necessity of proactive measures to secure mineral resources, which are indispensable to modern infrastructure and technology.

As global demand for minerals continues to accelerate, the importance of this assessment tool cannot be overstated. Ensuring the steadiness of mineral supply chains in earthquake-prone areas will be a challenge the international community must prioritize. The USGS’s innovative approach is a crucial step toward safeguarding these essential resources against natural disasters.

Overall, this development by USGS scientists signifies a significant advancement in the field of seismology and mineral resource management. It sets a precedent for future studies, encouraging a more integrated and data-driven approach to understanding and mitigating the risks earthquakes pose to global mineral supplies.