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Critical raw materials for Germany

The hunger for raw materials is growing worldwide. For future technologies and the green transformation, people need different raw materials than before - and in larger quantities. However, mining projects, especially in the global south, often bring with them ecological and social risks.


A "clean" energy transition in Germany is only possible if the raw materials are also mined "cleanly". There is discussion about how Germany and the EU can ensure the supply of raw materials and at the same time build responsible supply chains that benefit people in the mining countries.

The economic and political importance of the so-called critical raw materials is great. An electric car, for example, contains up to three kilograms of rare metals, as well as an average of 66 kilograms of graphite, 53 kilograms of copper and 13 kilograms of cobalt. The raw materials mostly come from just a few countries in Asia, Africa or Latin America. Global competition has long since broken out over this. Germany is also dependent on imports of these raw materials.

Not only the extraction, but also the production and processing of the raw materials is concentrated in a few countries. For example, around 87 percent of imported photovoltaic systems come from an Asian country. This creates new dependencies that are exacerbated by trade conflicts and political tensions. In short: supply is limited, demand is high and supply chains are potentially vulnerable to disruption. The debates about how raw material supply chains can be diversified and alternative sources of supply can be developed are therefore becoming increasingly intense.

At the same time, it is a matter of avoiding ecological and social "collateral damage" during mining, which includes, for example, poisoning of groundwater or child labor. In order to compete successfully for these raw materials, German and European companies must be attractive partners. This has long included making fair and sustainable offers to resource-rich countries.

There is discussion about what Germany and the EU need raw materials for, where they (can) come from and why the current geopolitical situation is particularly tense in this regard. In addition, the perspective of resource-rich countries in the global south is looked at and how their trade relations can support economic, social and ecological development worldwide.


In cooperation with the German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP) and the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (Unido)


Guests

  • Dr. Melanie Müller, German Institute for International and Security Affairs (SWP)
  • Dr. Olaf Deutschbein, Head of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (Unido) in Berlin

Information

  • Venue: Forum
  • Admission: free
  • Registration is required. Remaining tickets are available on site
  • Event language: German, English

Accessibility

  • An induction loop system is available.
  • Seats will be left free if you want to sit close to the stage due to visual impairments.
  • People with visual impairments are welcome. We ask for assistance for the blind if you need one.
  • Wheelchair-accessible venue.
  • Seats without seating are available for wheelchair users.
  • The event is aimed at interested parties aged 16 and over.
  • Conditions of participation: no previous knowledge required
  • Drinks and food can be purchased.

Photo & Video

Photos and videos will be taken during the event. If you do not want to be photographed, please let us know in advance.


Ticket

You need a ticket for this event.

Additional information
Meeting point: Forum

Accessibility

The future is for everyone! The Futurium wants to be accessible to everyone. If there are any other access needs, please let us know: info@futurium.de
Dates
February 2025
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