S01E04 - Europe's raw materials dilemma: Between dependence and autonomy

Europe's green and digital transitions depend on a steady supply of critical raw materials, yet many of the minerals and metals essential for modern industry remain concentrated in a small number of countries and supply chains. As geopolitical tensions rise and global competition intensifies, securing access to these resources has become a strategic priority for Europe.

In this episode of Raw Talks, Roman Stiftner speaks with Peter Handley, a leading expert on European industrial policy and critical raw materials. Drawing on decades of experience at the European Commission and beyond, Peter explains why Europe's raw materials challenge extends far beyond mining. From refining and processing capacity to investment, skills, industrial competitiveness, and geopolitical leverage, the discussion explores the structural factors shaping Europe's resilience.

The conversation examines the realities behind concepts such as strategic autonomy, supply chain diversification, and industrial policy. Peter argues that while initiatives such as the Critical Raw Materials Act represent an important step forward, Europe must move faster and complement regulation with investment, financing tools, and stronger industrial coordination if it wants to reduce vulnerabilities and strengthen its position in an increasingly competitive world.

At the heart of the discussion is a broader question: how can Europe maintain its economic model, industrial base, and technological ambitions while reducing strategic dependencies? Peter offers a pragmatic assessment of the challenges ahead, but also a positive outlook on Europe's capacity to adapt, innovate, and build a more resilient future.