The future of how we make

From lithium fields to the future of how we make 

In the desert of northern Chile, Erick Morales begins work each day beside some of the world’s richest lithium reserves. A project control engineer, Erick sees his role as more than technical oversight: he is helping ensure the lithium powering electric vehicles is produced responsibly, with respect for fragile ecosystems and local communities. Through his work, a new model of mining is taking shape - one that blends innovation, tradition and stewardship.

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How ground-level innovation is enabling smarter, more sustainable production

It begins with people solving practical challenges. An engineer monitoring water levels at first light in the Atacama Desert. Indigenous communities observing delicate water flows across salt flats. In northern Chile, direct lithium extraction (DLE) is turning “white gold” into a proving ground for cleaner, faster, and more precise ways of producing essential materials. 

What starts below the surface is now scaling rapidly. Advances such as low-impact lithium extraction and AI-driven production processes are transforming how critical materials are sourced and refined. Experiments at plant level, with automation, advanced analytics, and circular design are coming together into a more connected “Make” domain. 

In this emerging landscape, manufacturers, mining companies, technology providers, and recyclers collaborate more closely to build modular, data-driven industrial systems. The result is production that is not only more efficient, but also more resilient and sustainable. 

What it means for leaders

The conclusion is clear: manufacturing is no longer a standalone sector. It has evolved into a cross-industry ecosystem, centred on the fundamental human need to create and build, while doing so in a smarter and more sustainable way.