The resources sector will play a crucial role in the transition to a green economy and a more sustainable world. While it is also viewed as a contributor to the problems the world is trying to address, the sector in recent years has started to implement meaningful initiatives with defined goals. Much is yet to be done and the current generation entering the sector can help transform the sector in positive ways.

Governments and supply chains around the world are coming to the realization that the future that needs to be built to attain a green economy requires resources that may not be available within the required timelines. Initiatives are taking place which include recycling and repurposing existing resources, as well as developing technologies that will allow accessing needed metals and other resources in a sustainable manner. The urgent need is prompting a flurry of initiatives, from Apple’s LIAM robot to finding resources on land and under the ocean. The jury is out as to which ones will pan out.

What does the future look like to the next generation? We live in an era of turbulence and uncertainty, with the economy, covid and the climate crisis being among the many issues that impact us, and particularly so, the next generation. How do they view the future given the current reality? What about finding fulfilling jobs and earning a decent living. Could job prospects be reconciled with what they would wish to do? Although there are many career paths in the sustainable resource development sector, the message is not getting across from both directions How do we bridge that? What should schools and potential employers do?

Recent developments, ranging from war in Ukraine to unrest in jurisdictions around the world, make it abundantly clear that better, more holistic approaches to sustainable resource development, incorporating social, environmental and ethical dimensions, are needed.

• How can society move forward to build a harmonious society in a sustainable way?
• Is there a better way to design sustainable prosperity?
• Can we integrate factors that go beyond technical or financial metrics?

Resource Development and in Empowering the Next Generation Governments play a key role by enacting legislation, funding new initiatives and providing incentives for the private sector, educational, institutions and civic organizations to undertake the steps needed to support sustainable resource development, including those required to help ensure that the resources we need can become available in a timely and sustainable manner, fostering related R&D and employment. The legal profession could play a key role with regards to sustainable resource development by advancing and/or supporting policies and initiatives advocating constructive change.

Indigenous communities and peoples, original custodians of their traditional lands, have a key role in sustainable resource development, as stakeholders and partners, bringing their unique perspectives to the sector.

• What critical guidance can Indigenous communities provide to help ensure sustainable development takes place in a more robust and enduring manner?
• Are there better ways for the resources sector to effectively engage with Indigenous communities?
• Will a stronger engagement by Indigenous communities lead to greater participation by young Indigenous people in the natural resources sector?
• Could resource companies, Indigenous communities, educational institutions and governments do a better job re helping young Indigenous persons enter careers in the sector?

The resources sector at times appears to progress at a glacial pace. But things are starting to change as the C-Suites of many corporations have come to realize that the future of the enterprise could be at stake not just because of peer competition but also because of the advent of new regulations and enhanced societal expectations which need to be addressed by finding a better way to operate. Senior innovation positions have been established within resource companies and advancement centres such as the Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation and the Canada Mining Innovation Council have been created. Innovation and technology also play an important role in enhancing sustainability.