Critical and strategic raw materials: the resources at the heart of sustainable development
We use raw materials every day. From the rare metals in our smartphones and the building materials in our homes, to the metals used to produce and store the energy needed to run our industries, fuel our transport or heat our homes, these elements are at the heart of our modern society. Yet the way we extract, process and consume them has a significant impact on our planet and our societies.
A reality that affects us all
The exploitation of raw materials raises many challenges. Global demand continues to grow, putting increasing pressure on often limited resources. This situation can lead to geopolitical tensions, major environmental problems (deforestation, soil and water pollution, loss of biodiversity) and social concerns (working conditions, respect for human rights).
What's more, some of these materials – known as critical and strategic materials – are essential to key sectors of our economy, such as renewable energy and digital technology. However, they are often only available in a limited number of countries, which makes our societies vulnerable.
Faced with these challenges, we need to rethink our consumption and production models. Sustainable development invites us to find a balance between our current needs and the preservation of resources for future generations. It's about encouraging a more responsible and circular use of raw materials. It's a challenge, but also a tremendous opportunity.
Taking action for a sustainable future
Aware of the importance of this issue, the FISD is actively involved in promoting a better management of critical and strategic raw materials. Our ambition is to become the Belgian benchmark for expertise in raw materials, particularly critical and strategic materials, from a sustainable development perspective.
To achieve this, our mission is clear:
- Build and share knowledge on critical and strategic raw materials.
- Drive research and innovation for sustainable solutions.
- Formulate policy and strategy recommendations for the government.
- Provide information and raise awareness of these issues among the general public and Belgian stakeholders.
We are working closely with all players involved: public administrations, companies, trade unions, NGOs and research institutions. Together, we are mapping the environmental and social footprint of critical and strategic raw materials, supporting Belgian sectors in their dependency reduction strategies, and working to create a comprehensive database.
By taking these steps, we aim to contribute to a better understanding of the challenges, to formulate well-thought-out public policies and to build a more resilient and sustainable society across Belgium, in the face of the challenges that critical and strategic raw materials pose.