As the EU seeks to secure access to Critical Raw Materials (CRMs), CRM-related technical standardisation has been gaining increasing policy attention. Technical standards are essential for the private sector to comply with emerging regulatory requirements, including those recently introduced by the Critical Raw Materials Act. They are also crucial for disseminating significant technological advancements in the CRM sector, notably on recycling, while ensuring their benefits are distributed fairly and sustainably. In the current highly competitive geopolitical environment, technical standards are also increasingly leveraged to favour domestic industrial interests and priorities.
This CEPS In-Depth Analysis examines the role, state and future prospects of CRMs-related standardisation from an EU perspective. It begins with an overview of the key benefits and actors in both the EU and global technical standardisation system. It then maps key recent developments and initiatives in CRM standardisation, in the EU and globally. Drawing on consultations with experts, it then identifies three fundamental risks and challenges – the limited participation of EU stakeholders and experts, specific content gaps in recycling and traceability, and a highly fragmented ESG standardisation landscape. Finally, it provides some policy recommendations to help address these challenges and to enhance the EU’s role in CRM standardisation.
About the Authors
Edoardo Righetti is a Researcher in the Energy, Resources and Climate Change Unit at CEPS.
Vasileios Rizos is a Senior Research Fellow, heading the Energy, Resources and Climate Change Unit and he is also Head of Sustainable Resources and Circular Economy at CEPS.
Marika Moreschi is an Associate Research Assistant at CEPS.