The European Raw Materials Alliance (ERMA) was announced on 3 September 2020, as part of an Action Plan on Critical Raw Materials, and the publication of the 2020 List of Critical Raw Materials.  

The Action Plan looks at the current and future challenges and proposes actions to reduce Europe’s raw materials’ dependency on third countries, diversifying supply from both primary and secondary sources and improving resource efficiency and circularity while promoting responsible sourcing worldwide.

The Action Plan on Critical Raw Materials is aimed to:

• develop resilient value chains for EU industrial ecosystems;
• reduce dependency on primary critical raw materials through circular use of re-sources, sustainable products and innovation;
• strengthen domestic sourcing of raw materials in the EU;
• diversify sourcing from third countries and remove distortions to international trade, fully respecting the EU’s international obligations.

To achieve these objectives, European Communication outlined ten concrete actions. First, is the establishment of a European Raw Materials Alliance (ERMA). 

Metals, minerals and advanced materials are the key enablers for a globally competitive, green, and digital Europe. The European Raw Materials Alliance (ERMA) contributes to ensure a reliable, secure and sustainable access to raw materials. 

ERMA’s vision is to secure access to critical and strategic raw materials, advanced materials, and processing know-how for EU Industrial Ecosystems. The alliance will involve all relevant stakeholders, including industrial actors along the value chain, Member States and regions, trade unions, civil society, research and technology organisations, investors and NGOs. Learn more about us and our activities in News & Events section.