A Boost for Engineering Biology & Sustainable Metal Recovery
The UK Government has just published its Vision 2035: Critical Minerals Strategy, setting out ambitious targets to secure domestic supply, diversify international sources, and scale up recycling and processing of critical minerals essential for clean energy, electric vehicles, and advanced manufacturing.
Why this matters to us at ELEMENTAL: the strategy recognises that securing critical minerals isn’t just about mining, it’s also about recycling, recovery, and sustainable processing. This is where engineering biology comes into play. Innovative bio-based methods, like microbial recovery, bioleaching, and phytomining, can help recover valuable metals from industrial waste, batteries, and other end-of-life products, supporting a circular economy while reducing environmental impact.
Key points from the strategy that are particularly relevant for research and innovation hubs like ELEMENTAL:
- Recycling and circular economy targets: By 2035, at least 20% of critical mineral demand is expected to be met through recycling.
- Support for domestic processing and innovation: Public financing and policy support are being directed toward new approaches in mineral processing, including sustainable, bio-based technologies.
- Focus on ESG and responsible sourcing: The strategy emphasises environmental stewardship and ethical supply chains, aligning perfectly with the mission of engineering biology for sustainable metal recovery.
At ELEMENTAL, we’re excited by the potential for engineering biology to play a central role in delivering these goals, helping the UK reduce dependence on imported minerals while creating innovative, green solutions for industrial and environmental challenges.
Learn more about the UK’s Critical Minerals Strategy here: UK Critical Minerals Strategy 2025.