CM-NICE
Research and innovation
The CM-NICE project addresses the critical challenges facing the global supply chain for minerals essential to renewable energy technologies. By developing an innovative collaboration toolkit, the project enables secure and transparent data sharing among stakeholders to enhance supply chain sustainability and resilience.
Challenge
The growing demand for critical minerals, driven by renewable energy and electric vehicle technologies, has exposed supply chain vulnerabilities. Resource scarcity, geopolitical risks, and a lack of secure data-sharing mechanisms have created inefficiencies and hindered effective collaboration.
Solution
CM-NICE developed a prototype collaboration toolkit to facilitate secure data sharing without compromising commercially sensitive information. Key features include:
- Distributed governance models: balancing transparency and data security.
- Business and pricing models: developed by Teesside University to ensure value capture and market alignment.
- Distributed ledger technology: integrated by Chainvine to securely share and validate critical information.
- Technical advancements: designed in collaboration with the University of Cambridge for innovative platform functionality.
The International Chamber of Commerce ensured the toolkit aligned with industry needs, further strengthening its practical relevance.
Impact
This project represents a significant step toward addressing global resource challenges and supporting greener, more sustainable energy systems. Key outcomes from the project include:
- enhanced collaboration: the project encouraged secure and transparent communication among stakeholders
- improved sustainability: the project strengthened critical mineral supply chain resilience
- stakeholder engagement: early exposure to the prototype has provided valuable feedback, driving future refinements and potential adoption.
