Matthews presents a chilling talk about the growing shortage of strategic rare-earth elements and other natural resources. With the world's mineral and energy resources straining to supply exploding economies, prices have escalated dramatically. From cement, to petroleum, to strategic metals—the scramble for a piece of the worldwide pie is unprecedented. This presentation brings much-needed attention to our nation’s vulnerability to foreign sources of strategic minerals.

Before joining the Colorado Geological Survey in 2000, Matthews taught geology at the University of California, University of Northern Colorado, and ASU, among others. He is also a former executive for Amoco, Lear, Union Pacific, and Penn Virginia.