UNDERCOVER aims to transform Critical Raw Materials (CRM) exploration by extending the mineral systems concept, currently underutilised in quantitative exploration, to cover regional, district, and ore scales. Critical technologies from EU academia and companies, including low-cost lithosphere surveys, novel deeply penetrating airborne mapping, and highly efficient high-resolution methods, are assembled.

AI and joint inversion methods integrate multi-scale, multi-method, geological, geochemical, and geochronological data, creating a 4D mineral systems model. Environmental, social, and governance studies complement the adoption of the strategy increasing public acceptance and the adoption of UNFC guidelines are integral in our strategy.

UNDERCOVER strategy predicts public-private partnerships collecting precompetitive regional and lithospheric data, enabling companies to de-risk exploration programs and enhance funding prospects.

Case studies in Finland, Portugal, and Namibia demonstrate the strategy’s potential to double EU CRM potential at a lower cost than conventional approaches.