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The adventures of Indiana Jones have nothing on Queensland’s future crop of intrepid explorers, who will today (28 March) discover the vast array of critical minerals needed to lower the world’s carbon emissions.

More than 60 Wavell State High School students will take part in the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) Hunting Minerals, Metals and More workshop designed to investigate the role critical minerals play in lowering carbon emissions through renewable energy technologies.

The QMEA is the school engagement arm of the Queensland Resources Council (QRC).

QRC Director of Skills, Education and Diversity Katrina-Lee Jones said Queensland has the vast potential to provide the critical minerals needed to manufacture everyday items such as smart phones and renewable energy products such as wind turbines, electric cars, solar panels and batteries.

“The future is bright for these Brisbane students who will be challenged to a treasure hunt to identify the materials needed for so many aspects of our everyday life using the 30 Things publication, produced by the Minerals Council of Australia.” Ms Jones said.

Wavell State High School Principal Liz Foster said it will be an exciting and informative day for the students.

“The QMEA workshop will enable our students to face the real-world challenges of the future through hands-on activities while putting their problem solving and teamwork skills to the ultimate test.”

As Australia’s largest and most successful industry-led education and schools training initiative, the QMEA seeks to broaden student and teacher knowledge of career opportunities in resources.

The academy encourages a talent pipeline of employees into vocational and professional careers, with a focus on female and Indigenous participation. The QMEA currently engages with over 90 schools and is a partnership between the QRC and the Queensland Government under its Gateway to Industry Schools program.