CRITICAL RAW MATERIALS ACT: The challenges of implementation

Details

Supervisors

Denis, Benjamin

Faculty

Institut d'études européennes Saint-Louis

Degree label

Advanced Master in EU Environmental Governance (POLLEN)

Abstract

The European Union (EU) has set itself some very ambitious climate-related targets for the coming years. The first milestone is 2030, when the targets are to reduce net emissions by at least 55% (compared to 1990 levels) and to produce at least 42.5% of energy from renewable sources. These targets cannot be achieved without restructuring our current energy system and shifting massively towards renewables. However, all these clean technologies require large amounts of critical raw materials. For over a decade, the European Commission has been working to ensure the supply of these rare materials. These efforts culminated in the enactment of the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) in 2024, a regulation designed to establish targets and a clear strategy to secure these materials throughout the value chain, ensuring the smooth and complete deployment of the green transition. However, the regulation has blind spots, such as the combination of mineral sourcing with nature protection, the lack of specifically dedicated public investment to support the fulfilment of set targets, and the absence of clear definitions of the contributions of all member states. While the Regulation is well-intentioned and takes a relevant global perspective on prioritising strategic supply for the EU, it fails to specify the necessary measures to achieve this goal. In this paper, we will take an in-depth look at the strengths and weaknesses of the legislation's key provisions.