Status of the 2025 List of Critical Minerals

The steps to publication of the 2025 List of Critical Minerals.  The blue arrow indicates where the list currently is in the process.

How the 2025 List of Critical Minerals is Created

1. At least once every 3 years, the USGS updates the data-driven methodology for determining which minerals meet the criteria for criticality laid out in the Energy Act of 2020.  

2. While updating the methodology for the List of Critical Minerals, the USGS consults with experts in academia, government, and industry to ensure that the methodology incorporates the most advanced science and data up to that point and reflects the perspectives of diverse decision-makers. 

3. USGS drafts a methodology for developing the List of Critical Minerals.  

4. The draft is peer-reviewed by experts in the field and revised accordingly before being published.  

5. USGS uses the methodology to develop the draft List of Critical Minerals.  

6. USGS posts the published methodology and draft List of Critical Minerals to the Federal Register to solicit public input.  

7. The USGS seeks input from other federal agencies through the Critical Minerals Subcommittee of the National Science and Technology Council.   

8. USGS receives comments and questions from a wide cross-section of the public, including from academic experts, industry professionals, companies, public citizens and Tribes. USGS responses to public comment on the 2022 List of Critical Minerals are summarized here. 

9. In accordance with the Energy Act of 2020, the Secretary of the Interior has the authority to designate additional minerals to the List or remove minerals on the List. 

10. USGS publishes the List of Critical Minerals. The List is posted on the Federal Register.