In recent years, the global energy and minerals industry has experienced unprecedented growth due to the rapid shift toward electric vehicles, renewable energy storage, and advanced digital technologies. These trends have fueled strong demand for a range of so-called critical minerals, including lithium, cobalt, nickel, and various rare earth elements. Clean energy systems and modern electronic devices often require far larger quantities of mineral inputs than traditional technologies; for example, an electric vehicle can require several times the mineral inputs of a conventional car, and a wind or solar power plant uses many times more mineral materials than a comparable fossil fuel plant. This surge in demand reflects the expanding role of batteries, electric motors, and electronic components in the global economy, transforming minerals once considered niche into essential building blocks for clean technology and digital infrastructure. Critical minerals are vital for powering batteries, electric motors, and electronic devices. Lithium, cobalt, and nickel are core components of the lithium-ion batteries used in electric vehicles and grid-scale energy storage, determining battery performance and capacity. Rare earth elements are essential ingredients in high-strength permanent magnets that drive electric motors and turbines, and they also play a role in many advanced electronics. Other materials, such as graphite (used in battery anodes) and copper (used in electrical wiring and electronics), also play key roles in clean energy and digital systems. The result is that global demand for these minerals is rising rapidly as the world accelerates toward cleaner energy and more connected technologies. This rapid rise in demand has highlighted concerns about supply security. The production and processing of critical minerals tends to be geographically concentrated, so disruptions in a few locations can have outsized impacts on the entire supply chain; political changes, trade restrictions, or natural disasters in a key mining region can quickly lead to shortages or price spikes. Developing new mines and processing plants takes many years of investment, permitting, and construction, often a decade or more, so supply often lags behind sudden spikes in demand. For these reasons, securing access to critical minerals has become a strategic concern for governments and companies worldwide. Meeting rising demand is technically and environmentally challenging, because many critical minerals are difficult to extract and refine at scale. For example, extracting lithium from underground brine or rock can be water- and energy-intensive, and processing nickel or cobalt often involves harsh chemicals and large energy inputs. Mining operations can disturb large areas of land, creating waste rock, tailings, and the potential to pollute local water supplies. Many deposits have declining ore grades, meaning miners must process more rock and generate more waste per ton of metal, which in turn tends to increase greenhouse gas emissions unless offset by clean energy. All of these factors make it challenging and costly to ramp up production quickly while maintaining high environmental and social standards. In response to these challenges, companies and governments are pursuing multiple strategies, including investing in new mines and processing facilities in diverse regions to avoid over-reliance on any single source. Automakers, battery manufacturers and technology firms are forming partnerships and securing long-term contracts, sometimes even investing directly in mines or processing plants, to lock in material supplies. Recycling and reuse have become priorities as well: new recycling programs aim to recover lithium, cobalt, nickel and rare earths from spent batteries and electronic waste, creating valuable secondary sources. Research and development efforts are also accelerating, focusing on more efficient extraction and processing methods, substitution of scarce materials in batteries and magnets, and other lower-impact technologies. Together, these steps are intended to build a more resilient and sustainable supply chain for the critical minerals that underpin the clean energy transition.

At Gain Solar, we are dedicated to providing innovative building-integrated photovoltaic green materials, such as solar tiles, solar floor panels, and more. Our vision is to create a world where solar energy can be harnessed from every surface touched by the sun. With our cutting-edge design solutions, we enable the realization of Zero-Energy Buildings and Positive-Energy Buildings—without compromising architectural safety or aesthetics. At Gain Solar, our range of BIPV products includes solar facades, solar glass, solar roof tiles, sidings, greenhouses, railings, and more. These systems are characterized by frameless modules, hidden mounting, homogeneous surfaces, and the ability to replicate the appearance of any material or color. Our revolutionary BIPV systems provide architects, engineers, building owners, and investors with the opportunity to embrace and profit from solar energy while maintaining the beauty of their structures.

Dynamic and innovative business that specializes in the sales, hire, and modification of shipping containers. We are committed to providing our customers with high-quality products and services that meet their specific needs, whether it be for storage, transportation, accommodation, or any other purpose. Our Director, Nick Bond, has 15 years of experience within the industry and brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to our team. Nick has had an impressive career within the Australian and New Zealand markets, leading large teams, moving large volumes, and dealing with clients of all sizes. His leadership and experience have been instrumental in the success of Fleet Shipping Containers, and we are proud to have him as our Director. Under his guidance, we have established ourselves as a leading provider of shipping containers in Australia.

Kuka Home researches, develops, produces, and sells living room, dining room, and bedroom furniture with the goal of providing a healthy, comfortable, and environmentally friendly living environment globally. Currently, KUKA HOME products are sold in 120 countries and regions. We believe that home is the harbor of life. We are committed to serving every family with care and providing them with our high-quality products. Collaborating with 11 global design teams and 110 designers, we produce over 100 new designs each month and more than 600 new products annually. Offering a wide range of collections, with over 300 models available in multiple material options to suit diverse preferences. Our experienced and dedicated craftsmen ensure every product meets rigorous global quality standards.

World’s largest bakery company, celebrated for its vast range of breads, cookies, and other baked goods that are distributed across more than 30 countries. Grupo Bimbo combines a rich heritage of baking excellence with modern manufacturing processes to deliver products that cater to diverse cultural tastes. The company’s expansive distribution network and innovative supply chain have made it a trusted household name in the global food industry. Dedicated to sustainability and operational efficiency, Grupo Bimbo invests in eco-friendly production practices and technological innovations that optimize its logistics and reduce waste. Its focus on community development and nutritional improvement reinforces its commitment to quality and responsible business practices. Through strategic market expansion and continuous product innovation, Grupo Bimbo plays a pivotal role in shaping global consumer trends and supporting food security worldwide.

Leading project development and construction group, known for its high-quality projects in commercial, residential, and infrastructure sectors. With operations spanning Europe, North America, and other global markets, Skanska is recognized for its innovative approach to construction and sustainable building practices. The company focuses on creating long-term value by integrating design, construction, and project management services. Skanska’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its use of advanced green technologies and energy-efficient building practices, which reduce environmental impact while enhancing building performance. By fostering strong collaborations with clients and local communities, Skanska delivers projects that meet both current needs and future demands. The company’s focus on quality, safety, and innovation continues to solidify its position as a leader in the global construction industry.

Earned its reputation as a leading producer of educational toys and puzzles, blending Italian design flair with a commitment to fostering intellectual curiosity. Specializing in science kits, model puzzles, and interactive learning tools, the company crafts products that encourage children to explore, experiment, and learn through play. Each offering is meticulously designed to combine educational value with aesthetic appeal, providing engaging experiences that stimulate both the mind and the senses. Deeply invested in research and creative innovation, Clementoni continually adapts its product range to meet the evolving needs of a global market. Its strategic emphasis on integrating playful learning with cutting-edge design has not only elevated the standard of educational toys but also established the brand as a trusted partner in childhood development. By staying attuned to emerging trends and fostering a culture of creativity, Clementoni remains a distinguished leader in the gifts and toys industry, celebrated for turning learning into a joyful adventure.

Leading provider for IoT solutions, small Linux computers, development tools and programmers for embedded market. The company has 30+ years experience in designing, prototyping and manufacturing printed circuit boards, sub-assemblies, and complete electronic products. We have extensive knowledge in analog, digital, and microcontroller design, and we offer our own-designed development boards, programmers and emulators for rapid prototyping ARM, AVR, MSP430, MAXQ and PIC microcontrollers. Olimex is recognized as an Third Party Hardware Developer by Espressif, Alwinner, NXP Inc., ST Microelectronics Inc., Texas Istruments Inc., Microchip Inc. and we have over 50,000 active customer accounts who regularly use our services for electronic boards development and prototyping. Our design capabilities are backed by our own PCB prototype production and assembly facility, so all designs made by us are created with Design-For-Manufacturing in mind - which guarantees that they are optimized for reliability and provide cost-effective solutions for our customers.

Renowned for integrating clinical practice, education, and research to deliver exceptional patient care. The organization operates a comprehensive network of hospitals and clinics where multidisciplinary teams work closely to diagnose complex conditions, develop innovative treatment plans, and pioneer new medical research. Their patient-centric model emphasizes evidence-based medicine and a commitment to continuously improving outcomes through technological advancements and integrated care pathways. In addition to clinical excellence, Mayo Clinic is deeply invested in research and education, with several centers dedicated to translational science and clinical trials. Their initiatives range from precision medicine to digital health innovations, aiming to tailor treatments to individual patient needs. This dual commitment to service and discovery has positioned Mayo Clinic as a global leader in setting industry standards for medical care, medical education, and groundbreaking research.

Manufacturer of high-performance polymers and advanced materials, known for its innovative approach to transforming raw materials into sustainable solutions. The company serves a wide array of industries including automotive, construction, electronics, and healthcare with products that emphasize durability, efficiency, and environmental responsibility. Covestro’s focus on research and development has led to the creation of cutting-edge materials that drive the evolution of modern manufacturing and product design. With a strong commitment to sustainability, Covestro actively develops solutions that reduce energy consumption and promote resource efficiency. The company’s approach integrates technological innovation with eco-friendly practices, ensuring that its products not only meet the highest performance standards but also contribute to a greener future. Covestro’s leadership in the field of high-performance materials and its dedication to sustainable development continue to set new benchmarks in the global chemicals industry.