Vodcast #2 “Responsible mining in Europe”: Maria Nyberg is interviewed by Peter Tom Jones

In this second episode of a series of in-depth interviews (vodcasts) about the future of mining in Europe, Peter Tom Jones (Director KU Leuven Institute for Sustainable Metals and Minerals) speaks to leading voices in Europe, searching for answers to Europe’s seemingly problematic relationship with primary mining of energy-transition metals.
In this 28-minute interview with Maria Nyberg (European Commission DG GROW, Unit “Energy Intensive Industries and Raw Materials”) Jones tries to obtain a clear picture about Europe’s official position with respect to primary mining of energy-transition metals. In response to this, Nyberg elaborates on Europe’s three-pronged strategy towards raw materials. This implies (1) more and better recycling of critical metals, (2) primary mining in Europe, and (3) responsible sourcing of metals from trustworthy countries outside Europe. As regards the second aspect, the interview covers the NIMBY and Social License to Operate issues, the moral obligation to not skip the social and environmental burden of mining to the rest of the world, the concept of ethical mining, and, crucially, the permitting procedures, which are simply too cumbersome in Europe (with Canada as a leading example of how it can be done faster). Lots of food for thought!
Documentary “Responsible Mining in Europe”
This vodcast is closely linked to the (22-minute) documentary on “Responsible Mining in Europe”, which investigates how a socially and environmentally responsible mining paradigm can come to fruition in Europe. The documentary comprises spectacular footage of Europe's vanguard mining industry with key attention for social, environmental and waste management practices. Leading experts in the field (incl. Anders Sand (Boliden), Maria Nyberg (European Commission), Thomas Lapauw (ResourceFull), Liesbeth (VITO), Gwen (BRGM)) share their views on how Europe can boost its critical raw materials independency, which will be key for implementing Europe’s ambitious climate strategy. The full documentary, which was launched on October 20, 2022, can be viewed here: vimeo.com/7622...
Acknowledgements
ENICON is funded by the European Union. Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or CINEA. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.