Fernando Acosta

Fernando Acosta is a mining and industrial engineer, economist, and MBA with a keen interest in exploring the relationship between natural resources and the ways they shape our world—from the deep past to today’s urgent challenges of sustainability and the energy transition.

With more than 18 years of global experience spanning mining, finance, consultancy, academia, and public policy, he has advised governments, authored influential reports on the mining sector, and helped shape strategies for more responsible resource use. He currently serves as Director of Economics and Environment at the International Copper Study Group, supporting 26 member countries and the European Union in navigating the complex dynamics of metals and sustainability.

Fernando writes for curious minds—readers drawn to the intersections of geology, history, and the environment. His books, including Humanity's Eleventh Hour (2025) and Chile. Mining in the 21st Century (2017), translate complex realities into accessible, compelling narratives that reveal how the ground beneath our feet connects to the future of our societies.

When not writing or working, Fernando enjoys following sports from around the world, reading widely—especially scientific articles and historical fiction—and considers Franz Kafka the pinnacle of literary genius. He has lived and worked in Chile, Australia, the United Kingdom, and Portugal, and finds deep fulfilment in learning from different cultures along the way. An animal lover at heart, his dog is his closest companion and most loyal sounding board.