Europe’s Critical Raw Materials: Balancing Strategic Needs with Environmental Protection

The European Union faces an unprecedented dilemma in securing its mineral raw materials supply while protecting the environment.The 2024 Critical Raw Materials Act of the European Commission represents a turning point, marking a fundamental shift from market-oriented approaches towards strategic intervention in response to growing supply chain vulnerabilities.This paper examines the complex challenges facing Europe's critical raw materials strategy, particularly the tension between strategic resource security and environmental protection objectives.Drawing on recent implementation experiences, a three-pronged strategy is proposed that addresses public acceptance, financing barriers and international cooperation in order to strengthen the Critical Raw Materials Act framework while maintaining democratic values and environmental standards.