Climate tech companies are pivoting to critical minerals
Climate tech companies are shifting their focus from decarbonization to critical minerals as they adapt to a changing political landscape. This pivot aims to generate revenue through the production of metals like niobium and tantalum, which are deemed essential by the US government. While this strategy may not directly address climate issues, it could provide the financial stability needed to continue pursuing greener technologies in the long run.
- ▪Boston Metal raised $75 million to support its critical metals business, shifting focus from cleaner steel production.
- ▪The company is now producing metals like niobium and tantalum, which are used in high-end applications.
- ▪Brimstone is also pivoting to critical minerals while developing a new process to make cement with lower emissions.
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Climate change and energyClimate tech companies are pivoting to critical mineralsLess focus on decarbonization, more on supply chains. By Casey Crownhartarchive pageMay 21, 2026Adobe Stock We’re over a year into the second Trump administration here in the US, and support for climate causes is weak. But climate tech companies are finding ways to survive and even thrive in this new environment, including by focusing on potential benefits outside decarbonization. Suddenly, it feels like every climate tech company has a story to tell about topics that are politically in vogue: data centers, energy abundance, or critical minerals. In my newest story, I covered Boston Metal’s latest funding round.
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