Extractive materials like metals, stones, and minerals will continue to meet the needs of various sectors, but their deposits are depleting (Ashby, 2009). This article introduces the concept of an “expiration date” for extractive resources, specifically examining the example of copper, to encourage designers to propose alternative scenarios and solutions. Designers play a crucial role in promoting circular and sustainable practices, influencing how we manage and design within our ecosystems, as highlighted by Papanek (1972) and Reed and Lister (2020). The idea of setting “expiration dates” for resources is inspired by the 2022 single-use plastic regulation (European Commission, 2019), which aims to reduce environmental pollution and promote sustainable materials. Identifying these time limits, based on scientific research, seeks to establish concrete alternatives in response to emerging challenges. While it is technically challenging to pinpoint an exact date for resource depletion, the concept of an “expiration date” raises awareness and encourages more responsible resource management. Focusing on materials like copper underscores the need for advanced recycling technologies and the adoption of alternative materials, contributing to a sustainable ecological transition. In conclusion, setting expiration dates for non-renewable extractive resources could drive innovation, leading to the adoption of emerging materials such as bio-based, biomimetic, and “living” materials. This approach not only fosters sustainable practices but also has the potential to inspire creative exhibitions, such as the “Ore Streams” collection by Formafantasma.