Event info 

The Xplorer 2026 conference combines everyday life, science and culture to raise awareness of the necessity of sustainable development.

The aim of the event is to share information about the sustainable development and raise awareness of the critical minerals needed to advance green transition and produce various consumer products. 

The demand for metals continues to increase as we transition toward a green and carbon‑neutral society. For example, the electrification of vehicles, the production of clean energy, and the utilization of industrial side streams rely on technologies that use minerals and metals as raw materials. Without critical elements, modern mobility, energy production, and consumer electronics would not exist.

Consumers influence the demand for excavated metals through the choices they make when purchasing and recycling products.

Meanwhile, scientists are working to develop new ways to mine sustainably, enrich minerals into metals, and process them into new products in an environmentally friendly and resource‑efficient manner.

These topics are discussed during the Public Day and Science Days. 

The Public Day welcomes people of all ages who are interested in sustainability, the circular economy, mining, and cooperation to take part in the day’s various activities. University research is brought closer to the public to facilitate communication and foster understanding of the need for sustainable development that affects us all.

The same themes are explored in more depth during the Science Days, where a holistic perspective on the mining industry is taken. In presentations given by leading experts in the field, the mining industry is examined through the lenses of sustainability, new methods and processes, the environment, business, and people.

This event is part of the University of Oulu’s 2026 culture program.