Mining & Metals in a Sustainable World 2050 (World Economic Forum)

Few industrial sectors are more fundamental to global social and economic development than mining and metals. Important in themselves, representing more than $2 trillion in revenue, they also connect to the value chains of most other economic and industrial activities. They will face major challenges in the years to come. The future of our planet and of its finite, non-replaceable resources will be top of all serious agendas between now and 2050. A way has to be found for the Earth to live within its environmental means while coping with continued increases in both per capita consumption and population. As a result, regulation is increasing and customer sentiments are changing. While it remains essential for companies to focus on short-term issues in today's environment of low commodity prices, long-term success in a sustainable world requires developing a long-term perspective today.

http://www.weforum.org/reports/mining-metals-sustainable-world-2050