The first Strategic Implementation Plan (SIP) Workshop organised during the Raw Material Week in Brussels was a first step towards realizing ETP SMR agenda. It provided a platform for our members to delve into the strategic steps necessary to realize the ambitious goals outlined in the SRIA and CRM Act.

The workshop featured a keynote presentation by Daniel Cios from DG GROW, who shared the latest insights on project call results and future Raw Material Co-funded partnerships. He acknowledged the value of the SRIA developed by the ETP SMR and emphasized the importance of continued collaboration with DG GROW.

A high-level panel discussion, moderated by Julie Hollis (EuroGeoSurveys), brought together experts from across the sector: Rolf Kuby (Euromines), Tobias Kampman (ERA-MIN – Vinnova), Michael Tost (Leoben University), and Daniel Cios from DG GROW. The panel explored critical questions such as the most effective strategies and actions to address the challenges facing the mineral resources sector and achieve the ambitious goals of the CRM Act.

Following the panel discussion, participants engaged in in-depth table discussions focused on key topics including exploration, mining, metallurgy, metal recovery and recycling, environmental and social performance, global partnerships, raw material policy, and decarbonization. These discussions, facilitated by Charlotte Andersson (Luleå University of Technology – Swedish Mining Innovation), aimed to identify future R&I needs for the raw materials sector. The outcomes of these discussions and the feedback received will be integrated into the SIP draft and presented at the next workshop, scheduled for early next year.

We are grateful to our sponsoring members, LKAB, EPIROC, Sandvik, Boliden, and Zinkgruvan Mining, for their support. We also invite our members to consider hosting the next workshop, providing an opportunity to showcase their work and engage with the broader ETP SMR community.