Chevening scholar Manuel Alderete is helping Argentina lead a fair and sustainable energy transition. With global knowledge and a passion for critical minerals, he’s using the law to protect both people and the planet.
If you’re passionate about shaping the future of critical minerals, sustainable mining, or clean energy, applying for a Chevening Scholarship in these fields could open doors to global opportunities, just like it did for Manuel Alderete.
Growing up in Salta, a resource-rich province in northern Argentina, Manuel witnessed how land rich in natural resources didn’t necessarily translate into better lives for the people around him.
‘My mission is to help drive investments in mining and renewable energy that foster growth while safeguarding the environment and human rights.’
As the world transitions to clean energy, the demand for critical minerals. such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earths is rising. But without good governance, mining these resources can damage the environment and make life harder for the people who call these regions home.
‘As a lawyer, I feel responsible for contributing to the design of regulations and policies that prevent these outcomes.’
Before Chevening, Manuel worked in Argentina’s public sector, modernising legal processes and promoting transparency, and later in a leading law firm focused on mining and energy where he built a national team focused on regulatory reform and environmental justice. His work combined legal expertise with a commitment to sustainable development.
According to Manual, receiving a Chevening Scholarship changed his perspective. Manuel studied International Minerals and Energy Law and Policy at the University of Dundee, one of the world’s leading institutions in this field. He conducted research, gave lectures, and joined global discussions with policymakers and sustainability professionals.
‘Receiving a Chevening Scholarship has been transformative. I have gained not only academic knowledge but a truly international perspective on mining and energy industries.’
Back in Argentina, Manuel will bring his international experience home.
‘Meeting scholars at Chevening´s events, I realised many of them are pursuing similar goals in their countries, expanding my perspective and reinforcing the importance of building a global network to tackle shared challenges.’
He plans to lead regulatory reforms in energy and mining, shape sustainable policies, and strengthen academic links between the UK and Argentina through new courses on critical minerals.
Long-term, he aims to enter public service, helping to shape inclusive and sustainable policies at a national level.
‘I aspire to be a public official with decision-making authority, in my province, or at national level.‘
The UK is home to world-class universities offering courses in critical minerals.
If this area inspires you, learn how you can apply.
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