Networking at the exhibition area
Coffee break sponsor – Bara Consulting
The rise of automation, renewable energy, and AI is facilitating a shift toward the localisation of production. Countries are increasingly able to produce goods more efficiently, affordably, and sustainably within their own borders. This shift is shaping the future security of European nations, the dynamics of global trade alliances, and the very foundation of democracy as the dominant societal structure. Securing access to crucial raw materials is vital for Europe to remain competitive in this evolving global landscape. Without it, Europe risks becoming overly reliant on more competitive nations —potentially exposing itself to economic and political vulnerability.
Networking at the exhibition area
Portugal has a long history of mining dating back to the Roman era. The country’s mining industry is experiencing significant growth and transformation, aligning with the EU’s goals for raw material self-sufficiency. Mining production in Portugal increased by 2.10% in December 2024 compared to the previous year. The country’s non-ferrous metal ore mining industry had a market size of €580.1 million in 2024, ranking 8th in Europe for revenue. The sector has seen recent developments in lithium, copper, and other minerals, attracting substantial investments and strategic planning.
Europe’s battery sector stands at a pivotal moment, grappling with complex challenges and the urgent need for strategic solutions to support its energy transition. The session addresses the fragility of current supply chains, highlighting critical dependencies on imported materials—especially from China—and the vulnerabilities these pose to Europe’s long-term resilience. Shortages of lithium, nickel, cobalt, and manganese, combined with environmental concerns and local opposition to mining, emerged as significant barriers to scaling domestic production.
Regulatory uncertainty and fragmented policies across EU member states are impediments to coherent action, while the race for technological innovation sometimes overlooks sustainability and community impact. Public perception and social license for extraction activities also pose hurdles, with trust gaps between industry and local populations becoming increasingly evident.
The discussion will move beyond diagnostics to present practical, forward-thinking strategies. These include bolstering domestic production, de-risking supply chains, aligning industrial and environmental goals, and positioning Europe as a leader in responsible battery manufacturing.
Europe faces a mining dilemma: it needs to secure critical raw materials for its green transition and defence industries, but domestic mining projects face strong local opposition due to environmental concerns and a lack of public trust. This dilemma highlights the conflict between Europe’s desire for self-sufficiency in critical minerals and the potential environmental and social impacts of mining, particularly in the face of strong local opposition. Addressing this central challenge, outlining opportunities, case studies, and policy as the industry seeks closer alignment with Europe’s climate neutrality ambitions and developing mechanisms for genuine public consultation and free, prior, and informed consent (FPIC) from affected communities.
A fireside chat on inclusivity, social licence to operate and widening public the general public’s knowledge of raw materials and their opinions of where they should come from.
The discussion includes brief presentation of the documentaries “100 perceptions: Raw Materials” by VECTOR Project and “Lithium Paradox” by Journeyman Pictures
