Modern society needs access to raw materials that are necessary for maintaining and developing its industries, infrastructure and welfare systems. Some of these materials are referred to as critical raw materials (CRMs) due to their high economic importance and significant supply risk.
Together with the Nordic Working Group for Circular Economy (NCE), Nordic Innovation has launched a new report investigating the opportunities for recycling of critical raw materials in the Nordics.
The report was launched on 29. February and included a presentation of the recommendations by the authors Bergfald Miljørådgivere followed by discussions about the strategic importance of critical raw materials in the Nordics including future opportunities for innovation and development within waste- and recycling.
“There is a huge potential in creating an industry for recycling of critical raw materials in the Nordics,” concluded Bård Bergfald from Bergfald Miljørådgivere.
The event also included insights into EU’s upcoming work on critical raw materials from European Commission representatives.
Find the recordings of the webinar here
Strategies and innovation opportunities
Critical raw materials face increasing supply risks due to factors such as diminishing geological reserves of mineral ore, restrictions on mining operations and geopolitical conditions. To mitigate these risks and to meet the upcoming requirements of the EU Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA), the report explores strategies to enhance the selective collection of waste streams containing critical raw materials.
The report underscores the significance of secondary value chains based on recycling from discarded products and sorted waste streams. These waste streams can provide a lot of benefits for the Nordic societies if recovered and used for new products and materials by increasing circularity, reducing landfilling, providing stable and sustainable workplaces and securing access to raw materials for the downstream processing industries.
Managing Director from Nordic Innovation, Svein Berg, closed the event by looking forward:
"As we conclude in today's discussions, let's carry forward the insights gained, and the connections made. Let's remain committed to sustainability, knowing that the road ahead may be challenging but filled with opportunities for innovation and collaboration".
“Thank you to our speakers, panelists, and participants for your dedication to this important conversation. Together, let’s continue working towards a future where sustainable mineral practices are not just a goal, but a reality”.
Background
The report 'Recycling of Critical Raw Materials in the Nordics' is funded under the Sustainable Minerals program which aims to make the Nordic region leading within sustainable minerals production.
