Category: Blog – Analysis and expert opinion

• The informative dossier, developed by Xcalibur Smart Mapping based on official sources, shows how the application of artificial intelligence can manage natural resources, anticipate risks, minimize impacts, and build resilience in a transitioning energy system.
• The application of AI in this field becomes a strategic approach to anticipating the future and better managing the present of the energy transition.
• 800 billion dollars are needed in the critical minerals sector to reach the net-zero emissions target by 2040.

The demand for critical minerals will quadruple by 2040. This is one of the key findings of the First Xcalibur Smart Mapping Informative Dossier, titled “Artificial intelligence, critical minerals, and sustainable transformation”, developed by Xcalibur Smart Mapping, the global leader in natural capital mapping solutions. Drawing on its expertise and a range of official sources, the report highlights the geological, energy, and technological challenges facing the industry, as well as the transformative role that artificial intelligence (AI) plays in the current energy transition landscape.

The dossier notes that the growing demand for critical minerals is being driven by the development of key technologies such as batteries, electric transportation, and solar energy. To meet the net-zero emissions target by 2040, an investment of 800 billion dollars in the critical minerals sector will be required, according to the International Energy Agency.

The document presents artificial intelligence as a strategic tool for the energy transition. Its application is not only intended to optimize processes but also to transform the way we explore, plan, and manage the planet’s natural resources. AI enables us to anticipate future changes and manage present-day resources more efficiently. In fact, this key enabler extends beyond the energy sector: the dossier highlights that, according to EY’s AI Pulse Survey, 97% of companies that invested in AI in 2024 reported positive returns.

“It is not about technology replacing scientific knowledge, but rather enhancing and scaling it up. Technological integration does not replace experience, it multiplies it. It allows for the development of strategic solutions that improve exploration efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and reinforce traceability. It accelerates the identification and valuation of essential resources—key to European autonomy and sustainability—and transforms data into strategic decisions for a fairer and more resilient future,” highlights Jorge Urios, R&D Director of Xcalibur Smart Mapping.

The application of artificial intelligence in geological exploration marks a turning point in the way we locate and assess subsurface resources. Unlike conventional methods, which rely on manual interpretation, long lead times, and high uncertainty, new approaches integrate advanced sensors, machine learning, and predictive models that transform millions of data points into actionable knowledge.
AI can identify patterns invisible to the human eye, anticipate risks, optimize resources, and accelerate real-time decision-making. Its implementation improves efficiency and reduces environmental impact by eliminating invasive drilling and prolonged campaigns.

With the need for critical minerals projected in the coming decades, the dossier prepared by the global leader in natural capital mapping solutions underscores the need to adopt technologies that turn data into strategic decisions.

As a result, both work times and financial costs are drastically reduced.
For example, the company’s AI-based tools for aeromagnetic leveling would reduce 150 workdays per year across 30 projects. Meanwhile, the algorithms for magnetic compensation would reduce 80 flights per year, equivalent to approximately 100 tons of CO₂ emissions and a saving of more than $500,000.

“Artificial intelligence and applied knowledge position Xcalibur Smart Mapping as a key player in ecosystem monitoring, territorial management, and environmental traceability. Our solutions go beyond mining: they directly contribute to sustainability and climate action policies,” says Nicolas Leiva, Head of AI at Xcalibur Smart Mapping.

The dossier prepared by Xcalibur Smart Mapping concludes that AI is not just a set of algorithms, but a strategic tool for guiding decisions with a real impact on the planet’s sustainability. Thanks to these algorithms, it is possible to better explore, prioritize areas with a smaller environmental footprint, reduce improvisation, and increase transparency for public and private entities, investors, and communities. Furthermore, the data obtained allows for better management of natural resources, the design of more effective public policies, and the guidance of responsible investments.

For this reason, Xcalibur Smart Mapping has taken on a relevant role in the energy transformation with an approach based on AI, advanced sensors and predictive models that not only respond to the demand for efficiency, but also incorporate a systemic vision: exploring better, with more information, less impact and greater purpose.

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