Mineral resources are a vital part of any economy, modern or ancient. Since the birth of civilization, man has used these resources for pigments, metals, glasses, ceramics, cements and much more. The media has recently suggested there is a crisis looming over finding mineral resources, including critical metals. Centered on the sustainability of mineral resources, themes addressed in this issue include customer–supplier relationships, exploration, recycling and the circular economy, and environmental post-mining impacts. The broad range of topics embraced by this issue – formation of mineral deposits, minerals engineering, and environmental and societal impacts – will provide readers a better understanding of the large-scale economic, historical and educational aspects of mineral resources.
