The EIT RawMaterials RIS Hub Greece is excited to invite all stakeholders in the raw materials sector to the 9^th Greek Raw Materials Community Dialogue, taking place on 20 November 2024 at the Royal Olympic Hotel, Athens, Greece.

This year’s theme, “Towards the Dynamic Implementation of the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA)”, will explore the EU’s strategic response to the growing global demand for critical raw materials essential for green and digital transitions.

👉 Event Highlights:

🔸Session 1: Initiatives for the sustainability and resilience of the Raw Materials sector

This session will explore the main pillars of the CRMA, including the development of the CRM value chain in the EU, boosting supply diversification, and fostering sustainable sourcing and circularity. Discussions will focus on the investment potential and the impact of the Greek raw materials industry on strengthening the resilience and competitiveness of EU supply chains.

🔸Session 2: The need to innovate and the conditions to implement – Bridging the gap

The importance of innovation in the critical and strategic raw materials sector will be highlighted. This session will address the supportive ecosystem required for successful innovation, including funding, regulatory frameworks, skilled workforce, and collaboration between academia, industry, and governments. The focus will be on the innovation dynamics of the Greek raw materials sector and pathways for commercialization and business opportunities.

🔸Session 3: Funding opportunities in the Raw Materials sector

This session will delve into the significant investment potential of the EU raw materials industry. Key challenges such as regulatory barriers, technological gaps, and the need for transparent practices will be addressed. The importance of securing financial support and increasing investments to mobilize sustainable mining, metallurgical, and recycling practices will be emphasized. Insights into the economic growth of the sector and its role in ensuring the EU’s long-term stability and prosperity will be provided.

🔸Session 4: Education for strengthening the public acceptance of the Raw Materials industry

The role of education in securing a social license to operate (SLO) and enhancing public acceptance will be discussed. This session will explore the CRMA’s initiatives for ongoing education through a skills partnership and a Raw Materials Academy. The importance of transparency and informed dialogue with stakeholders to build community trust and facilitate permitting procedures will be highlighted.

🔸Session 5: Joining the Raw Materials industry – Impressions and perspectives shared by young professionals

Engage with young professionals who have recently joined the industry to share their excitement and optimism about its potential. Discussions will cover their motivations, challenges, and the complexities they face, including environmental and social responsibility. A dialogue between young professionals and experienced executives will be facilitated to exchange experiences and lessons learned.

🔸Poster Session: Education and innovation meet the industry

This session will showcase innovative projects funded by the European Commission, EIT RawMaterials, and other sources. Participants will explore the key pillars of the CRMA, present achievements, exchange ideas, and discuss best practices. The session aims to foster collaboration and networking between start-ups, innovators, and key industry players, encouraging new partnerships and initiatives aligned with supply diversification, sustainability, resilience, and technological advancement.

We look forward to a day of insightful discussions, networking, and collaboration as we collectively work towards strengthening the raw materials sector in Greece and beyond.

Registrations will open in the coming days! Stay tuned!