- Posted 19-May-2021
EIT RawMaterials Summit 2021 will feature raw materials innovators enabling a carbon-neutral future
Commissioners Gabriel & Breton, and VP Šefčovič to participate as recognition grows of importance of raw materials for EU green transition
Driven by rising demand across low-carbon energy technologies and electric vehicles, the world is currently facing a doubling of overall mineral requirements for clean energy by 2040. To prevent supply shortages with massive impact not only on the transition towards the EU Green Deal but also on the EU economy, it is paramount to educate, innovate and re-think our approach to raw materials. EIT RawMaterials is taking the global lead on this.
EIT RawMaterials has released its line-up of speakers at the annual RawMaterials Summit – a major European event in the raw materials sector. The 2021 event takes place online on 17 June, with the participation of industry leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers and academics from across the raw materials value chain.
Top EU figures will speak at the RawMaterials Summit including Mariya Gabriel, Commissioner for Innovation, Research, Culture, Education and Youth, Thierry Breton, Commissioner for Internal Market, and Maroš Šefčovič, Vice President for Interinstitutional Relations and Foresight. The presence of EU stakeholders highlights the pressing need for sustainable access to resources as fundamental for the industry and the twin transition of the EU economy. Leading experts and CEOs from Eramet, LKAB, Umicore, Atlantic Copper, Veolia will feature innovation and know-how for the transition to a green and circular economy in Europe. The summit will also showcase most promising start-ups behind the cutting-edge technology in the sector.
The EU’s recent update to its industrial strategy confirmed that raw materials remain a key strategic area for the Commission. Industrial alliances are the best tool to accelerate activities and attract private investors to strategic projects with high innovation potential. The RawMaterials Summit 2020 featured the launch of the European Raw Materials Alliance (ERMA), mandated by the European Commission to EIT RawMaterials. This year, the participants will hear how ERMA is working towards securing raw materials supply for a more resilient and greener Europe.
Source: EIT Raw Materials (https://bit.ly/3yoXAAf)