Recent environmental news sheds light on the significant environmental impacts of mining activities. In the United States, it has been highlighted that mines are discarding critical minerals, such as lithium, that could be utilized in clean energy technologies. The waste from U.S. mines contains enough lithium to power millions of electric vehicles. This loss of critical minerals underscores the importance of responsible mineral extraction and sustainable practices in the mining industry. Moreover, in the Philippines, communities near the Verde Island Passage are facing environmental degradation due to the development of a natural gas import hub, threatening marine biodiversity and the livelihoods of fishing communities. Additionally, Greenpeace Philippines has raised concerns about the potential loss of US$18 billion in climate-tagged funds due to corruption, emphasizing the need for transparent and accountable utilization of climate-related finances. Considering such developments in biodiversity credit markets is important as well, with environmental groups cautioning against the oversimplification of this complex issue.