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5 December 2023
Do geologists and policymakers view critical raw materials differently?
Geology plays a fundamental role in understanding, identifying, and accessing critical raw materials. These materials, crucial for various industries such as technology, renewable energy, and manufacturing, are often geologically constrained, meaning their availability is directly tied to specific geological formations or environments.
In this episode of NOWMORE Questions, we delve into the intricate relationship between geology and policymaking, particularly concerning critical raw materials. We address the divergence between a geologist’s perspective and policymakers’ categorization of what qualifies as ‘critical’ resources. Are we respecting planetary boundaries amidst resource extraction, and how does responsible mining fit into this paradigm?
We examine Europe’s stance on mining capacities, considering whether the continent’s reliance on external sources is intentional or due to a lack of available resources. Moreover, as critical raw materials power green initiatives while potentially creating challenging waste streams, we explore the attention given to waste management and soil contamination concerns.
We’ve had the privilege of hosting Julie Hollis, the Secretary General of EuroGeoSurveys, who offered invaluable insights into these complex topics. Her expertise showcased EuroGeoSurveys’ research priorities and the vital work being conducted, which includes surprising and essential focuses crucial for shaping a sustainable future.
About Julie Hollis
Julie Hollis is Secretary General of EuroGeoSurveys, a not-for-profit organisation representing 37 European geological surveys. EuroGeoSurveys aims to build a Geological Service for Europe to deliver pan-European geoscientific data, information, and knowledge to inform sound EU policy and support implementation of the Green Deal. For more than twenty years, Julie has worked in leading geoscience research and senior management roles in academia, geological surveys, and government in Belgium, Greenland, Denmark, and Australia, providing strategic direction, building relationships at the science-policy interface, and managing regional geoscience programs. She has a PhD in Geology and a Masters in Science Communication and Public Engagement, both from the University of Edinburgh.
EGS provides public earth science knowledge to support the EU’s competitiveness, social well-being, environmental management and international commitments.
EGS coordinates the network of The Geological Surveys of Europe, jointly addressing European issues in the field of geoscience and collaborating on projects that directly inform EU, local and national policy, for the benefit of all European citizens.