1st Regional Stakeholders Meeting in Extremadura Region

Fundecyt Pctex recently convened its 1st stakeholder meeting, with a diverse group of eight stakeholders representing key players such as the University of Extremadura, the Research Centre for Ornamental Rock and Stone, and the Government of Extremadura, among others.The coordination of the meeting was directed by Maika Díaz, project manager of Fundecyt Pctex, with support from colleagues Montserrat Hernández and Fernando Blanco.

During the meeting, Fundecyt presented RAW4RES project, its goals and objectives and provided crucial context on the issues it addresses, emphasizing the urgent need to reduce the EU's reliance on import of critical raw materials. Discussion ensued regarding the imperative to align with the Green Deal, Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and garner social consensus on CRM extraction.

Attendees engaged also in a debate regarding current Spanish legislation, highlighting areas for improvement to streamline procedures and foster social consensus.

Some of the key topics discussed included:

• Enhancing social awareness about CRM extraction through targeted awareness campaigns
• Promotion of recycling facilities, particularly ones focusing on electronic and energy waste.
• Exploration of establishment of industrial symbiosis networks.

Furthermore, key conclusions and policy recommendations emerged from the meeting, including, among others:

• Addressing the fragmented regulatory framework, with particular attention to ongoing legal challenges such as the "Lithium" Law.
• Promotion of the circular economy by fostering the development of secondary markets, especially within the recycling sector in Extremadura.
• Exploring opportunities for stakeholders to participate in project study visits and ensuring transparent communication regarding upcoming opportunities.

Overall, the stakeholder meeting served as a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration, paving the way for impactful policy recommendations and actions.