Economic complexity and raw materials

This thesis explores the intricate relationship between raw materials and economic complexity, emphasizing how critical raw materials (CRMs) shape economic development, particularly in the context of green technologies. The study investigates the concept of economic complexity, focusing on its measurement through the Economic Complexity Index (ECI) and the implications of resource management for industrial diversification. It addresses the role of CRMs, such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements, in advancing technologies like electric vehicles and renewable energy systems. By analyzing global supply chains, technological advancements, and sustainability challenges, the research highlights how nations rich in CRMs can leverage their natural resources to foster economic growth and innovation. The thesis also examines the geopolitical, environmental, and social risks associated with CRM extraction and proposes sustainable strategies for resource management, including recycling and alternative materials. Ultimately, it underscores the potential of raw materials to drive economic complexity, diversify industrial capabilities, and facilitate a transition toward a sustainable, high-tech global economy.