Perrine Fournier from Fern highlights the threat mining poses to ecosystems and the urgent need to declare some areas off-limits for mining, driven by the demand for minerals like copper, cobalt, and lithium for clean energy technologies. The expansion of mining in Brazil and the Democratic Republic of Congo, as well as efforts in Europe to secure minerals, are threatening fragile ecosystems and Indigenous peoples, impacting climate change by releasing stored carbon. To prevent mining from undermining human rights and climate goals, a global and precautionary approach is needed, with protected areas off-limits to mining. Diversifying economies, reducing mineral demand, and promoting policy choices such as efficient vehicles, alternative battery technologies, public transport, and recycling are crucial steps in addressing these issues. Europe could potentially meet half of its critical mineral needs through recycling by 2050, highlighting the importance of a framework to restrict mining in sensitive areas to protect the environment.