Beyond the 3TGs: Why Cobalt and Mica Are in the Spotlight in 2025
Most companies have gotten used to hearing about conflict minerals—the infamous “3TG” (tin, tungsten, tantalum, and gold). But the story doesn’t end there. Regulators, NGOs, and investors are now widening the lens to look at extended minerals like cobalt and mica, and in 2025, even more materials are under review.
Why cobalt and mica?
Cobalt is essential for batteries, powering everything from smartphones to electric cars. Mica is used in paints, coatings, and electronics. Both are heavily linked to child labor, unsafe mining conditions, and environmental destruction in certain regions. As global demand grows, so does the scrutiny.
What’s changing in 2025?
Regulators and industry groups are expanding due diligence frameworks. The EU’s due diligence directive and the OECD guidance both now highlight cobalt and mica alongside the original 3TG. On top of that, the 2025, Extended Minerals Reporting Template requires Due Diligence on the following additional minerals:
Copper
Nickel
Lithium
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This expansion signals a clear trend: the days of focusing on just four minerals are over. Supply chain transparency now means looking at the full list of critical and high-risk raw materials.
Where companies slip up
A lot of businesses assume extended minerals won’t apply to them because “we don’t buy from Congo” or “our supplier said it’s fine.” The problem is that risks often sit deeper in the supply chain, at smelters, refiners, or sub-suppliers you’ve never spoken to directly. If you can’t prove where your cobalt or mica comes from, you’re leaving yourself exposed.
Why it matters
This isn’t just about avoiding regulatory fines. It’s about trust. Brands that can prove their minerals aren’t tied to child labor or conflict zones have a serious advantage with customers, investors, and regulators. Those that can’t risk reputational damage and losing contracts with major buyers who demand clean supply chains.
How to get ahead
Expand your due diligence now. Don’t wait for regulators to force you. Cobalt, mica, and more are already under scrutiny.
Engage suppliers proactively. Build stronger relationships so they’ll cooperate when you push for smelter-level transparency.
Keep compliance practical. Tools and frameworks exist to simplify reporting. Use them before audits or customer demands catch you off guard.
The bottom line
Extended minerals reporting is no longer a “future issue.” It’s happening now. Companies that embrace transparency across cobalt, mica, and other high-risk materials in 2025 will be far better positioned for growth and resilience.
At The 3TGs, we help businesses go beyond conflict minerals reporting and adapt to the new reality of extended minerals. From cobalt to lithium to rare earths, we guide you through supplier engagement, reporting frameworks, and practical compliance systems that actually work.
Ready to take extended minerals off your worry list? Reach out to us at info@3tgs.org and let’s handle compliance together.
