Embracing Circularity: A Pathway for Strengthening the Critical Raw Materials Act

The Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) has circular elements, but more could be done to harness the power of circularity. This will help Europe improve its geopolitical independence whilst also building a more sustainable and green future.

Building on evidence-based research, the report on the CRMA to be launched at the European Parliament in Brussels on 17 July 2023 showcases the challenges, opportunities and business best practices on embracing a more circular economy in critical raw materials use. It takes three materials as examples:

1. aluminium (bauxite and magnesium),
2. lithium, and
3. Rare Earth Elements (REE).

The report sets out recommendations on how policymakers can enable faster uptake of circular economy solutions. The paper is authored by CLG Europe’s Taskforce for Climate Neutral and Circular Materials and Products and the Wuppertal Institute for Climate, Environment and Energy.

This hybrid event on 17 July (09:30 to 11:30 CEST) aims to bring together key policymakers, businesses and third sector organisations. It will be hosted at the European Parliament by Sara Matthieu MEP, ENVI committee shadow rapporteur for the CRMA. The report will be made available to the public at that time.

Speakers will include:

• Martin Porter, Executive Chair, CISL Brussels
• Sarah Matthieu MEP, Greens, European Parliament
• Sirpa Pietikäinen MEP, EPP, European Parliament
• Michael Ritthoff, Senior Researcher, Wuppertal Institut
• Céline Domecq, Director Public Affairs EU, Volvo cars
• Helge Haakon Refsum, Director, Business Development at Hydro Batteries and Board Member of Vianode.