The quest for the Democratic Republic of Congo's cobalt, which is essential to making electric car batteries, shows how the clean energy revolution is caught up in gamesmanship, greed and exploitation, a Times investigation found. nyti.ms/3oKBswf
Outsiders exploiting Congo's natural treasures are following a tired colonial-era pattern. With more than two-thirds of the world's cobalt production coming from Congo, it's once again the site of a power struggle as automakers pivot to electric cars. nyti.ms/3oKBswf
In particular, a rivalry between China and the U.S. could have far-reaching implications for the clean energy revolution. Chinese firms own or finance 15 of 19 cobalt mines in Congo, which suppliers for American automakers like Tesla depend on. nyti.ms/3oKBswf
The impact of the cobalt boom on the Congolese people is a matter of bitter dispute.
"We know our ground is rich," said the chief of one village near a mine. He expects his community will be relocated — and that it will share little of the mine's wealth. nyti.ms/3oKBswf
"We know our ground is rich," said the chief of one village near a mine. He expects his community will be relocated — and that it will share little of the mine's wealth. nyti.ms/3oKBswf
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