Critical raw materials: No sustainable transformation without equitable partnerships
summary
Critical raw materials are essential for the EU's energy transition. But the current strategy poses significant risks to the environment, human rights and global justice. The briefing A Partnership of Equals? shows: The planned strategic partnerships within the framework of the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) They need to be sharpened significantly.
Why the topic is politically central
The EU needs large quantities of metals for climate neutrality and digitalisation, but is heavily dependent on imports. At the same time, many raw materials come from countries with weak governance and high social and environmental risks.
The EU's response: Strategic raw material partnerships.
Claim vs. reality
The partnerships are intended to secure supply and promote sustainable development. In practice, however, there are clear weaknesses:
- Lack of transparency and participation
- unclear environmental and social standards
- Lack of concrete implementation
There is a risk of exacerbating existing inequalities.
Key challenges
Environmental and human rights risks
Mining of raw materials often leads to environmental degradation, conflicts and violations of the rights of local and indigenous communities.
Lack of local added value
Many assisted countries hardly benefit economically. Industrialisation, technology transfer and fair revenues remain limited.
Lack of transparency
Contracts and decision-making processes are often non-transparent and civil society actors are hardly involved.
No demand reduction strategy
The EU is primarily focusing on more supply instead of structurally reducing raw material consumption.
Policy action needed
1. Binding standards
- Mandatory human rights and environmental care
- Protection of local communities
2. Strengthen development
- Promoting local value creation and industrialisation
- Secure technology transfer
3. Transparency and participation
- Public accessibility of all agreements
- Involvement of civil society
4. Reducing raw material consumption
- Prioritise efficiency, circularity and sufficiency
conclusion
The EU is facing a decisive decision. Without fundamental reforms, commodity partnerships threaten to deepen environmental damage and global inequalities.
A sustainable transformation requires Partnerships on an equal footing – transparent, fair and with clear social and environmental guidelines.
Press & Background
For interviews, audio and data please contact:
Adrian Bornmann
Speaker for press and public relations
Maja Wilke
Policy Officer for Raw Materials Policy
