The National Critical Minerals Research Program, developed by the Hellenic Survey of Geology and Mineral Exploration (H.S.G.M.E), is already in the implementation phase and has been submitted to the European Commission’s DG Grow. H.S.G.M.E. is responsible for executing Public Mining Research in Greece.
This initiative aligns with Europe’s deadline for national program submissions under the Critical Raw Materials (CRM) Act, due by May 24, 2025. The Greek proposal was submitted in the national language, with a more succinct English version expected by early July.
The CRM Board, comprised of representatives from all Member States, is tasked with forming permanent and temporary subgroups to tackle specific issues and objectives aligned with national critical raw materials programs.
The National Critical Raw Materials Research Program is vital for enhancing Greece’s role in supplying Europe with essential raw materials and ensuring self-sufficiency. It falls under Regulation (EU) 2024/1252, which establishes a framework for securing a sustainable supply of critical raw materials, based on Article 19 of this Regulation.
This program is part of a broader European and national strategy aimed at bolstering the EU’s self-sufficiency and resilience in the critical mineral sector, particularly focusing on Critical and Strategic Raw Materials (CSR and SSR). It emphasizes the assessment, exploitation, and sustainable management of national mineral resources.
Implemented by H.S.G.M.E, the project aims to identify and document deposits of Critical Mineral Raw Materials in specified regions of Greece. It also explores the potential to utilize mining waste and boost secondary raw material production, adhering to European guidelines for decoupling economic growth from primary resource consumption—thereby significantly contributing to regional development and Europe’s energy transition towards sustainability.
Executives from the mining sector noted that “in an increasingly competitive global landscape for natural resources, this program serves not only as a geological research tool but also as a strategic national initiative aimed at safeguarding Greece’s production model, supporting regional growth, and facilitating the nation’s involvement in the new European industrial policy.”
They also highlighted that the Greek mining industry will require an investment of €2.7 billion by 2030. These funds will be allocated to enhancing sustainability, adopting new underground mining technologies—including energy and communication systems—alongside investments in research, development, and innovation. For the Greek mining sector, key priorities include competitiveness, maintaining a social license to operate, attracting and nurturing talent, resource identification, and aligning with the European Green Deal.
Objectives
Sources indicate that the primary objectives of the National Critical Minerals Research Program encompass the reassessment and calculation of reserves in public mining areas in Greece with a focus on critical minerals. The program will also conduct targeted research on these materials, preparing for international tenders to be issued by the Ministry of Environment and Energy for their efficient and sustainable use.
Furthermore, the program aims to evaluate mining waste from inactive public mines and slate quarries, addressing their environmental impacts through feasibility studies for integration into the circular economy. The economic and technical appraisal of selected deposits will seek to identify sustainable development opportunities, ensuring respect for the environment and local communities.
