Following the recent Forward in Energy Forum hosted by the Wisconsin Energy Institute, Dr. Luca Mastropasqua participated in a panel discussion titled “Critical Minerals and Energy.” Alongside other UW–Madison experts, Dr. Mastropasqua shared insights from his research at the HERD Lab on how electrochemical separations and metal refining can help address the growing global demand for materials like lithium, iron, manganese, nickel. The panel explored the complex intersection of supply chain security, environmental impact, and the circular economy, emphasizing that a truly sustainable energy transition requires not just low-carbon technology, but also a responsible approach to the raw materials that make such technology possible.