BGS Risk List 2012

I realised recently there’s a vital something missing from my blog but I just couldn’t put my finger on it. After a while of thinking it came to me that of course, it must be that obligatory component of all the best blogs; a weekly feature!

So for the next 10 weeks you guys are in for a treat: a count down of the BGS (British Geological Society) Risk List 2012! The list compiles the chemical elements most at risk in terms of the supply available against the demand that our world economy and lifestyles put on them.

A selection of the factors on which they are assessed:

·      Location of current preserves and production (the majority of which are concentrated in China)

·      Political stability in these locations

·      Recycling rates

·      Substitutability

The elements are ranked on a scale of 1-10 on the Relative Supply Risk Index, compiled from the factors above, with 10 being most at risk.

So check back on Tomorrow for the first installment of the Wednesday countdown. Information will include the Relative Supply Risk Index rating, why there is demand for the element, and where the risk of supply disruption is coming from.