Critical and strategic raw materials are crucial for the European Union’s economy, societal needs and policy objectives. However, their supply is currently at risk and will likely remain so in the foreseeable future. The EU has increasingly focused on this issue since the launch of its raw materials initiative, culminating in the recent Critical Raw Materials Act. Research and innovation (R&I) play a vital role in enhancing the EU’s global position. The policy options outlined here, along with those in the accompanying study, aim to boost the EU’s strategic autonomy but come with inherent R&I risks. Investment in technological capabilities is essential for the EU to maintain a leading position in the raw material value chain. Additionally, social science research can help address concerns and identify pathways to increase domestic raw material supply, thereby strengthening the EU economy, securing societal well-being, and benefiting local communities.
Summary
Critical raw materials (CRMs) are vital for a resilient EU economy but present diverse challenges. Existing methodologies assess and monitor risks and potential impacts of supply disruptions. Despite challenges in accessing timely, high-quality data, these methodologies address both the current state of CRMs and future developments related to strategic raw materials (SRMs) in terms of supply and demand. The results of CRM assessments have evolved due to shifting supply and demand conditions, and this trend will continue with SRM assessments. These evaluations, along with supporting background work, offer a comprehensive view of the raw materials supply chain, enabling the development of strategies to mitigate supply risks and enhance resilience.
The EU has addressed raw material criticality through various actions, including robust engagement in R&I for CRMs. R&I’s role is emphasized in policy documents, from the 2008 raw materials initiative to the Critical Raw Materials Act. In tandem with this political focus, EU funding has significantly increased through past Framework Programmes, the current Horizon Europe, and EIT RawMaterials, which is nearing the end of its funding period. The EU remains a key player in patenting, particularly in mining, processing, and recycling, with strong international ties, especially with the USA. Ongoing funding and policy support are crucial for sustaining and benefiting from this position.
Key R&I and sustainability themes for CRMs include:
- Reducing costs and impacts of mining, processing, and recycling
- Managing complexity, from mining and processing complex ores to recycling intricate products
- Engaging with stakeholders and securing public acceptance
- Covering the entire value chain, from exploration to recycling, including circularity strategies
- Ensuring data access and creating transparency throughout supply chains
