This hybrid event is centred around the publication of a report on the role of circular economy in the European Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA). The underlying study was prepared by researchers from the Wuppertal Institute and the CLG Europe Materials & Products Taskforce. The aim of the event is to bring together key policy makers, companies, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
The researchers' key message: Even though the CRMA proposal already contains some circular elements, more can and should be done to exploit the potential of circular economy. This would allow Europe to strengthen its geopolitical autonomy while advancing the green transformation.
Based on evidence-based research, the report highlights challenges, opportunities, and best practices of the circular use of critical raw materials, using three materials as examples: aluminium (bauxite and magnesium), lithium, and rare earth elements. Furthermore, the report provides recommendations for policymakers on how to enable faster implementation and commercial viability of circular economy solutions.
In addition to Michael Ritthoff, Senior Researcher in the Material Loops Research Unit and project lead on the side of the Wuppertal Institute, speakers include Martin Porter, Executive Chair of the Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership Brussels, Céline Domecq, Director Public Affairs EU at Volvo Cars, and Helge Haakon Refsum, Director Business Development at Hydro Batteries.
The event will take place from 09.30 am to 11.30 am (CEST) in room ASP 5E1 of the European Parliament. It will be moderated by Sara Matthieu, Member of the European Parliament and shadow rapporteur of the ENVI Committee on the CRMA. Registrations to attend in person or via GoToWebinar are available via the links below.