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Technology advancement: a factor in increasing resource use

Open-File Report 2001-197
By: , , and 
https://doi.org/10.3133/ofr01197

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Abstract

The specter of mineral resource scarcity has been repeatedly raised as a concern because ever-growing populations with seemingly insatiable appetites for minerals place claims against a finite resource endowment. This report analyzes how technology has helped to ease resource constraints, and uses case studies of aluminum, copper, potash, and sulfur minerals to identify the effects of technology on resource supply.


In spite of heightened demand for and increased loss of resources to environmental policy and urbanization, mineral producers historically have been able to continually expand production and lower costs. Specific production increases for the years 1900-98 were: aluminum (3,250 percent), copper (2,465 percent), potash (3,770 percent), and sulfur (6,000 percent). For the same period, constant-dollar (1998) prices decreased: aluminum (90 percent), copper (75 percent), potash (94 percent), and sulfur (89 percent).


The application of technology has made available mineral deposits that were previously overlooked or considered non-viable. Using technology, producers can meet the demand for stronger, energy-efficient, more environmentally safe products with less physical material. Technologies have been developed to increase the amount of materials recycled and remanufactured. Technology development can occur in breakthroughs, but most often advances incrementally. Technological development is driven by the profit motive.

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Technology advancement: a factor in increasing resource use
Series title Open-File Report
Series number 2001-197
DOI 10.3133/ofr01197
Edition Version 1.03
Year Published 2001
Language English
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Description vi, 81 p.
Online Only (Y/N) Y
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