How the race for critical minerals is creating ‘sacrifice zones,’ impacting the world’s poorest people

# The Hidden Cost of Your Tech The gadgets and green energy we rely on—from AI to electric cars to solar panels—require minerals like lithium and cobalt that are mined in some of the world's poorest regions, often leaving those communities with poisoned water and health problems. As wealthy nations rush to secure these minerals for their tech revolution, the poorest people are paying the price, much like oil-producing countries suffered during the last century's energy boom. Without better oversight and regulations of mining practices, this pattern will likely continue harming the very communities that help power our modern world.