MEPs in the Industry, Research and Energy Committee (ITRE) support the creation of a European Raw Materials Alliance (ERMA) and, within this framework, approve mining—provided that it is sustainable—on European territory and in third countries. These are the main messages of the draft report by Hildegard Bentele (EPP, Germany), which they adopted on Tuesday 28 September by a large majority (59 votes to 2 with 13 abstentions)
MEPs support the approach announced last year by the European Commission (see EUROPE 12552/1) towards rare earths and magnets, through sourcing strategies on European territory and in third countries, always with a view to reducing the Union’s dependence on “some non-member countries”, starting with China.
On the external side, they insist that mining in third countries should not infringe on their national sovereignty, but should contribute to the welfare and prosperity of developing countries.
On the domestic front, MEPs encourage mining within the EU. They do not prohibit mining in Natura 2000 areas, but mining must be carried out under very strict conditions, after thorough environmental studies have been carried out and in accordance with the Birds and Habitats Directives.
The issue of mining has created strong opposition, especially among the Greens/EFA group, which prefers to focus on recycling first. However, recycling raw materials is not enough for Ms Bentele. “If we are serious about the European Green Deal, sustainable sourcing of key raw materials is part of the solution, not the problem”, she said ahead of the vote in a statement.
Another important element of the report is that MEPs insist on the recycling and treatment of e-waste, but also on improving the collection of e-waste, renewing partnership agreements with third countries, and providing workers with new skills.
To consult the compromise amendments (all adopted): https://bit.ly/3F9NcA7 (Original version in French by Pascal Hansens)