Introduction

Abstract

This chapter sets the scene for the book. The origins of global warming are described together with examples of greenhouse gases. Carbon capture approaches are described along with carbon mineralisation and net-zero. Examples of critical materials, also referred to as critical minerals, are introduced along with the concept of extractive capitalism and geological prospecting. A timeline of events since the 1750s at the start of the Industrial Revolution that are relevant to the development of global warming is summarised in tabular form.