Why are raw materials important?

Summary

In this engaging introduction, Patrick Nadal from EIT Raw Materials highlights the vital role of raw materials, specifically minerals and metals, in achieving a sustainable, green, and circular economy. He emphasizes the increasing demand for these resources in modern technology, from smartphones to electric vehicles, and the importance of sustainable sourcing. With only 0-30% of materials currently being recycled, the need for mining persists, particularly for critical raw materials, where Europe faces significant supply challenges. Nadal's presentation underscores the urgent transition required to secure a sustainable future and the pivotal role of raw materials in this endeavor.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Raw materials are crucial for transitioning to a sustainable, clean, and circular society.
• 🏗️ EIT Raw Materials focuses specifically on minerals and metals, distinguishing them from other raw materials like food and timber.
• 📜 The historical use of raw materials has evolved significantly, from prehistoric tools to modern technologies that require diverse elements.
• 📱 Everyday products, including smartphones and electric vehicles, rely on a variety of raw materials, illustrating their widespread importance.
• 🔄 Current recycling rates for raw materials are low, ranging from 0 to 30%, with high-tech materials recycling at less than 1%.
• ⚠️ Critical raw materials are those that are scarce or sourced from politically unstable regions, affecting their availability and sustainability.
• 🇪🇺 Europe currently sources only about 9% of its critical raw materials domestically, heavily relying on imports from other regions.
• 📉 Between 2000 and 2017, Europe experienced declining production rates of raw materials, raising concerns about long-term sustainability.
• 📊 Only 34.1% of global raw material supplies come from politically stable countries, highlighting risks in the supply chain.
• ✨ EIT Raw Materials aims to transform raw materials into a major strength for Europe, supporting the transition to a greener economy.

Q & A

What is the main focus of EIT Raw Materials?

EIT Raw Materials focuses on minerals and metals, emphasizing their importance for transitioning to a sustainable, clean, and circular society.

How are raw materials defined in the context of this presentation?

Raw materials are defined as minerals and metals, distinguishing them from other materials like water, food, and timber.

What is meant by the phrase 'if you can't grow it, you need to mine it'?

This phrase suggests that non-renewable resources like minerals and metals must be mined since they cannot be naturally grown, although recycling is also a viable option.

Why are raw materials essential for modern technology?

Raw materials are crucial because modern technology relies on a wide range of minerals and elements, with many applications in everyday products, vehicles, and high-tech innovations.

What is the significance of recycling raw materials?

Recycling is important because it can reduce the need for mining new materials. However, current recycling rates are low, ranging from 0 to 30% depending on the raw material.

What are critical raw materials?

Critical raw materials are those that are scarce, not abundantly available, or mined under unstable or unsustainable conditions. The European Commission periodically reviews which elements are classified as critical.

How does Europe compare to other regions in terms of raw material production?

Europe is unique in having declining production rates for raw materials from 2000 to 2017, while other regions do not share this trend.

What percentage of global raw material supplies comes from politically stable or fair countries?

Only 34.1% of global raw material supplies are sourced from politically stable or fair countries.

What role does EIT Raw Materials play in Europe's resource strategy?

EIT Raw Materials aims to transform raw materials into a major strength for Europe, supporting the shift towards a more sustainable, clean, and green society.

How can individuals contribute to the transition to a more sustainable society regarding raw materials?

Individuals can contribute by being aware of the importance of raw materials, supporting recycling efforts, and advocating for sustainable sourcing practices.