China, Critical Minerals & the Green Transition: Who Really Controls the Future?

Sophia Kalantzakos on geopolitics, supply chains, and the hidden costs of AI The green and digital transitions are reshaping the global economy. But at what cost, and under whose control? In this episode of Mapping Global China Conversations, we speak with Sophia Kalantzakos, Global Distinguished Professor of Environmental Studies and Public Policy at NYU Abu Dhabi, about: 

• Why the green and digital transitions are deeply intertwined
• China’s long-term strategy on critical minerals and supply chains
• The limits of U.S. and EU decoupling efforts
• The environmental and geopolitical costs of AI and data centers
• Why “critical minerals” are becoming the real chokepoints of global power
• Whether the current transition is truly sustainable or just a new scramble for resources

A clear-eyed conversation on geopolitics, geoeconomics, and the future of global competition. Watch the full interview to understand who really controls the foundations of the green and digital world.