The secure and sustainable supply of raw materials to the European industry and society is today one of the hottest topics on the EU agenda. The new Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) presents a signicant opportunity for all sectorial stakeholders, particularly the regional ones where the mineral resources occur. CRMA’s main goal is to increase the domestic production of primary and secondary strategic minerals, with extraction covering at least 10% of the consumption and recycling/reusing at least 25%. This ambitious target, while requiring a dramatic change in several policy instruments and the adoption of new ones, holds the promise of transforming regional ecosystems rich in critical and strategic raw materials. EMRIE partners represent the regions with the most valuable deposit preferred in the CRMA.

EMRIE addresses the issue of responsible resource management, which aligns with the Circular and resource-ecient economy. By enhancing the use of natural resources, promoting circular economy principles, and developing ecient land use plans and policies, regions can reduce import dependency, bolstering economic resilience and stability. Moreover, optimising planning and transforming mining waste into valuable resources contribute to environmental sustainability and mitigate the negative impacts of mining.

The EMRIE will enhance regional policy instruments through its collaborative efforts to advance the transition towards a greener economy. The shared approach, focusing on responsible resource management and circular economy principles, ensures stakeholders are part of the solution. By improving governance structures to ensure effective policy implementation and alignment with EU objectives, fostering regional growth and environmental sustainability, and supporting the implementation of CRMA through the dedicated learning journey to develop regional solid mining innovation ecosystems, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future.