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Critical Raw Materials (CRM) are crucial for the economy and our daily lives. They are essential natural materials, metals and minerals for at least five strategic sectors of the European Union: renewable energy, mobility and transport, industry, aerospace and information and communication technologies (ICT).

Some key examples include:

  • Lithium, cobalt, and nickel for batteries in electric vehicles and electronic devices.
  • Magnesium and scandium for the aerospace industry.
  • Silicon for semiconductors and batteries.
  • Borates for glass and fertiliser production.

The new Critical Raw Materials Regulation

In March 2024, the European Council adopted the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) with the aim of ensuring the secure and sustainable supply of these materials in the European Union. This regulation addresses the growing demand for raw materials and encourages research and innovation to achieve self-sufficiency in key sectors such as energy and mobility.

However, its scope goes much further:

  • Improves circularity and sustainability throughout the entire value chain.
  • It reduces dependence on imports and strengthens the strategic autonomy of the European Union.
  • It promotes the use of recycled materials, promoting circular economy models.

How does it affect companies?

It is essential that large and small companies operating in the five strategic sectors anticipate and prepare. They must map their products and supply chains, know first-hand the origin of their raw materials and determine whether they are critical or strategic. They must also promote the use of recycled materials to benefit from trade incentives within the European Union. Companies that anticipate the requirements of the new regulation will have a competitive advantage in the market, ensuring the resilience and sustainability of their business.

How can we help you at LOMARTOV?

At LOMARTOV, we work with advanced life cycle analysis and sustainability assessment tools that analyse inventories and supplies considering the entire life cycle, assessing the criticality profile of materials, and proposing alternatives to reduce the impacts of their use. This analysis can improve key regulatory indicators such as ecotoxicity, biodiversity loss, ecosystem destruction, and risks to human health. Our team of experts will help you comply with regulations and optimise your value chain with innovative solutions tailored to your sector.

For more details on material criticality analysis, we invite you to consult some of our success stories in raw material analysis.

  • CROCODILE: development of an efficient system for cobalt recovery.
  • CAT4HEAVY: Emission reduction technology for heavy vehicles to reduce dependence on raw materials.
  • CHEMPGM: evaluation and improvement of the raw materials value chain.

Stay ahead of the future and strengthen your supply chain. Contact us to assess your impact and explore sustainable solutions.