Unlocking Potential: EU Environment Chief Advocates for the Future of Recycled Raw Materials

Jessika Roswall highlighted a pressing issue in an interview on Bloomberg TV. She pointed out that the use of secondary critical raw materials is still too low. Increased usage could not only boost the supply of these materials but also help reduce their costs.

The European Union faces mounting pressure from businesses to invest in creating a sustainable economy and ensure access to essential raw materials. To cut its reliance on Chinese suppliers, the EU introduced the Critical Raw Materials Act in 2023. This law aims for the EU to produce at least 40% of its essential raw materials by 2030.

Roswall emphasized the need to enhance domestic production of raw materials and streamline the approval process for new mining operations. She believes that maintaining high environmental standards is crucial. “We need mines in the European Union to ensure our resilience,” she stated.

Improved access to raw materials is set to play a pivotal role in the upcoming Clean Industrial Deal, a European strategy aimed at boosting competitiveness as the region transitions to net zero emissions. While specific details are still under wraps, industry leaders are calling for measures like financial support for domestic mining, free trade agreements, and expanded provisions in the Critical Raw Materials Act.

Additionally, the European Commission is considering the idea of consolidating demand and creating a unified platform for procuring critical raw materials essential for clean technologies.

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