Critical Minerals

USGS provides science and data on the occurrence and distribution of geologic resources, including current and future mineral resources and their wastes. USGS also addresses environmental and socioeconomic effects of geologic resource occurrence, extraction, use, and disposal; and global supply, demand, and trade in nonfuel mineral commodities. USGS provides reliable information to answer your...

This project focuses on artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) of minerals and gemstones globally and the illegal mining and transport of these natural resources. Project scientists employ field mapping, geomorphological techniques, and remote sensing to map, monitor, and evaluate mineral deposits and ASM activities in conflict zones and during complex emergencies. The research is directly applied...