The Commission is committed to updating the list at least every 3 years to reflect production, market and technological developments. The list of CRMs was established as a priority action of the EU ‘raw materials initiative’ of 2008.
First list of CRMs – in 2011, a list of 14 CRMs was published in the communication on raw materials.They are irreplaceable in solar panels, wind turbines, electric vehicles, and energy-efficient lighting. Environment – raw materials are closely linked to clean technologies.For example, a smartphone might contain up to 50 different kinds of metals, all of which contribute to its small size, light weight and functionality. Modern technology - technological progress and quality of life rely on access to a growing number of raw materials.Link to industry - non-energy raw materials are linked to all industries across all supply chain stages.
CRMs combine raw materials of high importance to the EU economy and of high risk associated with their supply. To address this challenge, the European Commission has created a list of critical raw materials (CRMs) for the EU, which is subject to a regular review and update. Reliable and unhindered access to certain raw materials is a growing concern within the EU and across the globe. They form a strong industrial base, producing a broad range of goods and applications used in everyday life and modern technologies. Raw materials are crucial to Europe’s economy.
