News | Euromines

Joint Letter – Energy-Intensive Industries – ETS Letter to EU Leaders

Dear President Costa,

Dear Presidents and Prime Ministers,

Ahead of the European Council of 15–16 October, we are writing on behalf of Europe’s energy intensive industries with an urgent call: make the EU ETS review a priority for the European Council. This reform, now moving at exceptional speed, is the most consequential legislative initiative of this mandate for Europe’s economy. It will set the cost structure, investment decisions and employment plans of European companies for years to come. If the urgency of restoring industrial competitiveness is a strategic priority, this reform is where that commitment will be tested.

Last February, at the European Industry Summit and at the Alden Biesen retreat, Europe’s leaders agreed that the EU needed to move from diagnosis to delivery, with concrete actions and results in 2026.

Yet, two years after Draghi’s report, the implementation gap remains unresolved. Decisive action is urgently needed to restore competitive energy prices and create the enabling conditions that would make transformative decarbonisation investments possible across all regions of the EU: affordable electricity, CO2 and energy infrastructure, demand, financing, and a functioning Single Market.

The European Council should therefore double down on Competitiveness and inform the strategic decisions of the European Commission in this direction. Multiple issues already on the agenda deserve urgent consideration.

First, proper attention must be given to the Competitiveness envelope in the upcoming negotiations on the MFF 2028-2034. We acknowledge that such negotiations will require difficult choices. Yet, the Competitiveness envelope must be commensurate with the scale of our challenges and capable of supporting industrial investment and transformation.

Then, building on your scrutiny of the recent understandings reached with China, we call upon you to ensure a broader and ambitious strategy to address unfair trade practices and persistent market distortions, and to bring lasting relief for sectors facing unfair competition. To preserve Europe’s industrial base, the EU must use existing trade defence instruments faster and more effectively and develop a new toolkit to address state-driven distortions and new forms of circumvention. None of this can be delivered without a significant increase in staff and resources for the Commission’s trade defence services.

Finally, we urge you to ensure that the EU ETS review is fully aligned with the competitiveness commitments made in Antwerp and Alden Biesen. This requires prioritising the quality of negotiations over speed and giving this reform the scrutiny it deserves, addressing the shortcomings of the European Commission’s proposal and ensuring that any substantive decision rests also in the hands of Heads of State and Government.

Some elements of the Commission’s proposal, such as the adjustment of the ETS trajectory and other flexibility measures, represent a step in the right direction. Yet, Member States need to take a clear stance on carbon leakage measures and ensure that the final agreement reflects industrial realities. Concretely, it is essential to:

– Ensure that unconditional free allocation of allowances remains a protection from carbon leakage risk. Free allocation exists to protect European production from carbon leakage, while competitors face no comparable carbon cost. Making such protection conditional on investment obligations will further exacerbate the competitive asymmetry and must be avoided.

– Avoid a punitive cross-sectoral correction factor (CSCF) and a steep reduction of free allocation. This will require, among others, changing the ratio between free allocation and auctioning. According to the Commission’s own estimates, free allocation could be reduced by up to 70% by 2040 through the CSCF. A steep reduction in free allocation would seriously undermine the competitiveness and investment capacity of energy-intensive industries at the very moment they are expected to deliver the deepest transformation.

– Ensure an effective and watertight CBAM, including a concrete solution on exports while free allocation is being phased out.

Delivering competitive, low-carbon energy, accelerate grids connections and CO₂ infrastructure across all regions of the EU, and develop markets for low CO₂ products where needed are essential prerequisites for any ambitious transformation of industry and for the implementation of the EU ETS. We ask you to assess the current proposal with the above in mind: Europe cannot simultaneously promise to restore the business case for investment and make the conditions for that investment harder to meet.

The leaders of Europe’s energy-intensive industries stand ready to engage with you on these key topics at any time to strengthen the growth potential of our economy, protect European jobs and secure investments. It is now time for EU policies to create the conditions in which those investments can actually take place.

PRESS RELEASE: Strengthening the backbone of Europe: Second wave of strategic projects announced under the CRMA

Brussels, 09 October 2026 – Following today’s announcement of the results for the second call for Strategic Projects under the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA), Euromines welcomes this key expansion of the EU’s raw materials roadmap. This selection marks a continued and necessary commitment to fostering a resilient, secure, and sustainable supply of the minerals essential for Europe’s green, digital, and defence transitions.

The newly designated strategic projects (list) aim to strengthen Europe’s industrial supply chains by promoting responsible mining, processing and recycling. This second wave of selections reinforces the European Union’s commitment to reducing strategic dependencies and enhancing economic autonomy in an increasingly volatile global landscape.

Euromines congratulates its direct and indirect members whose projects have been selected. These include KGHM Polska Miedź, Hellas Gold, Zinnwald Lithium, Sokli Oy, Lithium de France, Cobre San Rafael and Gruvaktiebolaget Viscaria in the extraction category, as well as Verde Magnesium and Arctial Group Oy in processing.

“The path to European autonomy is paved with critical minerals. To secure our future, we must match our environmental ambitions with a practical commitment to domestic production and streamlined investment,” commented Rolf Kuby, Euromines Director General.

With the publication of this updated list, Euromines continues to advocate for:

Accelerated permitting: A call to Member States and national authorities to streamline and speed up approval procedures.
Domestic investment: Policies that actively support investment in European raw material production and extraction technologies.
Highest standards: Maintaining the world’s most rigorous environmental and social standards within the industry.
Collaborative success: A commitment from all stakeholders to ensure these projects deliver on their promise.

For media enquires, please contact:

Anna Zanetti

zanetti@euromines.be

About Euromines:

Euromines, the European Association of Mining, Metal Ores & Industrial Metals, is the voice of the European metals and minerals mining industry. Our primary goal is to promote responsible industry practices and ensure that mining receives appropriate consideration in EU policymaking. As a collaborative network, Euromines brings together the Secretariat and Members to assess the impact of European and international policies on the industry, shaping unified positions and actions. Representing both large and small companies, as well as their subsidiaries across Europe and beyond, Euromines advocates for a sustainable and competitive mining sector.

Euromines appoints Peter Richardson to its Executive Committee

Euromines welcomes Peter Richardson, Senior Vice President, Business Area Iron Ore at LKAB, to its Executive Committee (EXCOM). Peter was appointed by the Euromines General Assembly on 7 October 2026.

Peter brings more than 30 years of international mining experience to the Executive Committee, with a career spanning Europe, North America and South America. His experience covers the base metals and gold sectors, as well as a broad range of operational, technical and strategic areas across the mining industry.

Peter currently serves as Senior Vice President Iron Ore at LKAB. Before joining LKAB, he held senior leadership positions at Boliden, Lundin Mining and Barrick Gold.

He holds an MSc in Mineral Processing and Extractive Metallurgy from Luleå University of Technology, Sweden, and has extensive experience in health and safety, environmental management and permitting, social performance, operations, project management, exploration, procurement and strategic planning.

Bringing industry experience to Euromines

Peter joins the Executive Committee at an important time for Europe’s mining and raw materials sector. Access to responsibly produced raw materials is increasingly important to Europe’s industrial competitiveness, energy transition and economic resilience.

As Europe works to strengthen its domestic capacity and build more resilient raw materials supply chains, the mining sector faces both significant opportunities and challenges. Ensuring the right conditions for investment, responsible production and innovation will be essential to meeting Europe’s future mineral needs.

Peter’s extensive operational experience and international perspective will contribute to the work of Euromines and its members as the organisation continues to engage with policymakers and stakeholders and advocate for a strong, competitive and sustainable European mining industry.

Euromines looks forward to working with Peter in his new role and welcomes his contribution to the Executive Committee (EXCOM).

PRESS RELEASE: Euromines welcomes Mikael Staffas as new president

Euromines welcomes Mikael Staffas as new president

Brussels, 07 October 2026 – Euromines, the European Association of Mining Industries, Metal Ores and Industrial Minerals, today welcomed the appointment of Mikael Staffas, President and CEO of Boliden, as the association’s new President.

Mikael Staffas takes over the role from Jan Moström, former President and CEO of LKAB, and upholds the continuance in leadership with extensive experience in the European metals and mining sector for Euromines. In his new capacity, he will lead Euromines’ efforts to represent the interests of the European mining industry at a critical time for the sector, as the European Union advances its Critical Raw Materials Act and works to strengthen the resilience and competitiveness of its raw materials supply chains.

“I am honoured to take on the presidency of Euromines. Our sector stands ready to help deliver on the EU’s ambitions for raw material sovereignty, and I look forward to engaging closely with policymakers and stakeholders to make that happen.” commented Mikael Staffas.

“Staffas’ experience at Boliden brings valuable industrial insight to Euromines at a key time. The need to invest in raw materials production in Europe has never been more urgent and important. We are confident his leadership will strengthen our voice in Brussels and support our members across Europe,” commented Rolf Kuby, Euromines Director General.

Under Mikael Staffas’ leadership, Euromines will continue to advocate for:

Faster permitting: calling on Member States to streamline and speed up approval procedures.
Policy coherence: abolish inconsistent rules and promote legislation that strengthens and supports a resilient Europe.
Domestic investments: policies that actively support investment in European raw material production and extraction technologies.
Shared commitment: engaging all stakeholders to ensure these projects deliver on their promise.

Mikael Staffas’ appointment was confirmed by the Euromines General Assembly on 7 October 2026.

About Mikael Staffas: Mikael is the President and CEO of Boliden since 2018 and has been part of Boliden Group Management since 2011, formerly as President Boliden Mines 2015–2018 and CFO 2011–2015. Previous experience includes positions as CFO for Södra Skogsägarna as well as partner at McKinsey & Co. He holds a M.Sc. in Engineering Physics from Royal Institute of Technology and an MBA from INSEAD.

Mikael also serves as chairman of International Zinc Association, board member of the International Council on Mining and Metals and has previously been chairman of Eurometaux. He further serves on the Management Board of the Confederation of Swedish Enterprise.

For media enquires, please contact:

Anna Zanetti

zanetti@euromines.be

About Euromines:

Member Spotlight: RHI Magnesita – Europe’s Industrial Future Starts with Responsible Mining

As Euromines celebrates its 30th anniversary, I would like to recognise the important role the association has played in bringing together Europe’s mining sector and highlighting the importance of secure and sustainable access to mineral raw materials. Today, this mission is more relevant than ever.

Since joining RHI Magnesita in 2019, I have had the opportunity to work closely with colleagues across our global mining operations. One lesson has become increasingly clear: mineral resources cannot simply be switched on when demand increases. Understanding a deposit, developing it responsibly and ensuring its long-term contribution requires decades of geological expertise, investment and commitment.

This is why I believe Europe should continue investing in its own mineral resource base. The Critical Raw Materials Act provides an important framework for this ambition, but its success will ultimately depend on how effectively Europe can translate policy into new projects, responsible permitting and long-term investment.

This is particularly important for minerals such as magnesite, the natural mineral from which magnesia is produced. Magnesia bricks and mixes are indispensable for manufacturing steel, cement, aluminium, glass and many non-ferrous metals, making secure access to this resource an important element of Europe’s industrial resilience and competitiveness.

At RHI Magnesita, we operate a vertically integrated global network with more than 20,000 employees, 76 production sites – including recycling facilities – and 16 raw material sites worldwide. Europe remains an important part of this network and of our geological expertise.

One example is our Dolomite Resource Center Europe in Hochfilzen, Austria. The development of this modern dolomite and magnesite operation demonstrates how geological knowledge, innovation and responsible mining can come together to create long-term value. The project required extensive geological evaluation, careful planning and significant investment, reminding us that while mineral resources take millions of years to form, developing responsible access to them also requires patience and a long-term perspective.

For me, Hochfilzen represents what the future of European mining can look like: combining technical expertise with efficient processes, innovation and a strong focus on minimising environmental impact. The site is also expected to host a commercial carbon mineralisation facility capable of capturing and converting around 50,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually into valuable mineral products, demonstrating how mining can contribute not only to resource security but also to climate solutions.

(RHI Magnesita’s Hochfilzen site, Austria)

This same long-term thinking also shapes how I see the relationship between mining and circularity. Recycling and primary production are not alternatives – they are complementary approaches. While recycling allows us to recover valuable materials already in use, responsibly managed mining remains essential to provide the resources that modern society depends on. At RHI Magnesita, this philosophy is reflected in our own progress: recycled refractory materials accounted for 15.9% of our raw material mix in 2025, with a target of 20% by 2030.

Working across our global operations has also shown me how much Europe contributes to advancing mining practices. High environmental standards, engineering expertise and a strong culture of continuous improvement create solutions that inspire progress well beyond our region.

Looking ahead, my team’s priorities remain clear: strengthening geological knowledge, improving resource efficiency and supporting responsible mining that contributes to resilient European supply chains. By combining innovation, expertise and collaboration, we can ensure that Europe’s mineral resources continue to underpin a competitive, sustainable and resilient industrial future.

By Anja Moser-Tscharf, Head of Global Geology & Mining, RHI Magnesita

Photo credits: All images © RHI Magnesita.

European Permitting Conference: From Bottlenecks to Breakthroughs – Rethinking Industrial Permitting for a Competitive & Climate-Neutral Europe

Permitting should be a strategic enabler for Europe, not a bottleneck to investment. That was one of the key messages from the first European Conference on Permitting, held on 8 September 2026 in Brussels and co-organised by the Informal Coalition on Permitting, of which Euromines is a member.

Held under the theme “From Bottlenecks to Breakthroughs: Rethinking Industrial Permitting for a Competitive & Climate-Neutral Europe,” the conference brought together EU policymakers, industry representatives, national authorities and civil society to discuss the challenges facing industrial permitting and explore practical ways forward.

Addressing the permitting challenge

Speakers and participants highlighted that the issue extends beyond lengthy timelines. Fragmented procedures, duplication, limited permitting capacity, diverging interpretations and overlapping legislative requirements can add complexity and create uncertainty for projects and investors.

The discussion focused on a number of potential solutions, including:

Clearer and more coherent legislation and implementation
More proportionate and risk-based permitting approaches
One-stop shops with clear and meaningful timelines
Stronger national permitting capacity, staffing and skills
Greater use of digital procedures
Better coordination of infrastructure and investment planning
Sharing best practices and strengthening community engagement

Towards better permitting

A recurring theme throughout the conference was that simplification alone is not enough. Participants discussed the need for permitting systems that are more efficient and predictable while maintaining strong environmental standards.

The interaction between different EU legislative frameworks was also examined, including the Water Framework Directive and the Critical Raw Materials Act. Greater coherence between these frameworks was identified as an important factor in reducing unnecessary complexity.

Participants also discussed the proposed Permitting Omnibus and its potential to reduce duplication and gold-plating, improve legislative coherence and make permitting processes more workable.

For the mining and raw materials sector, effective permitting is particularly relevant to projects supplying the materials needed for renewable energy, electrification and energy storage.

The conference highlighted the importance of moving beyond the question of simply making permitting faster towards developing better permitting: processes that are clear, predictable and workable while supporting investment and maintaining appropriate environmental safeguards.

Euromines thanks all speakers, panellists and participants for contributing to a constructive and solutions-oriented discussion.

PRESS RELEASE: Getting ETS reform right is key to Europe’s industrial competitiveness

Brussels, 17 July 2026 – Today’s proposal to revise the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) sets the foundation for the functioning of the next trading period, and the parameters whether the EU can demonstrate that industrial competitiveness and climate neutrality can go hand in hand in fierce global competition.

ETS must evolve into an investment roadmap that supports industrial decarbonisation while preserving the competitiveness of European industries and strengthening production and investment in Europe, particularly in this challenging geopolitical environment.

In this regard, Euromines sees important elements in the Commission’s proposal that can help achieve these objectives:

The possibility for companies to continue receiving free allowances into the 2040s, recognising their role not only as a carbon leakage protection measure against increasing carbon costs, but also as an economic resource needed to finance investments in decarbonised production processes and supporting industrial investment in Europe.
The adaptation of the pace of the Linear Reduction Factor (LRF), helping to make industrial decarbonisation more achievable and better aligned with available technologies, associated costs, and economic viability.
A more strategic use of ETS revenues, ensuring they are reinvested in measures that support the decarbonisation and competitiveness of European industry.
The introduction of a separate proposal for determining fallback benchmarks for heat and fuel for 2026-2030, including an adjustment to the maximum update rate for fallback benchmark, ensuring the highest possible increase in free allocation based on those benchmarks until 2030 without triggering the cross-sectoral correction factor (CSCF).

At the same time, several additional issues remain important for ensuring the effectiveness of ETS. Euromines continues to support the integration of high-quality international carbon credits, recognising that Article 6 of the Paris Agreement already provides safeguards for credible international cooperation.

Furthermore, as free allowances are inherently linked to investments in decarbonisation technologies, conditionalities should remain balanced, ensuring effective carbon leakage protection while enabling companies to continue investing in clean technologies and industrial transformation.

“We are encouraged to see elements in today’s proposal that reflect the direction industry has been advocating for. The real test will be in the details with the fallback benchmark procedure and the conditionalities attached to free allowances must be designed in a way that supports, not undermines, Europe’s industrial competitiveness.” – Rolf Kuby, Director General, Euromines.

Euromines will continue to engage constructively with policymakers to ensure these positive elements are preserved in the final legislation and that the ETS provides a predictable framework that drives decarbonisation through investment, strengthens Europe’s industrial base, and safeguards the international competitiveness of sectors exposed to global competition and carbon leakage.

For media enquires, please contact:

Anna Zanetti

zanetti@euromines.be

About Euromines:

World Youth Skills Day 2026: Young Professionals Shaping the Future of Mining

In celebration of World Youth Skills Day on 15 July, Euromines is showcasing nine young professionals from across its member organisations who are helping shape the future of Europe’s mining industry.

Discover their stories below as they reflect on the skills they’ve developed, how training and on-the-job learning have supported their careers, and the capabilities they believe will be most critical for the future of mining.

Scroll down to discover their stories.

Mateusz Płaskoń - Graduate Mining Intern, KGHM Polska Miedz S.A.

Mateusz Płaskoń – Graduate Mining Intern, KGHM Polska Miedź S.A.

1. What is the most important skill you have developed so far in your mining career?

The most important skill I have developed while working in the geological department is the precise identification of ore body parameters and the continuous assessment of geological and mining conditions. This requires not only thorough analysis of geological documentation but, above all, the ability to respond quickly to changing natural conditions underground. Developing an efficient workflow—from the immediate identification of geological disturbances in the rock mass to the rapid delivery of accurate data to other departments—has been essential. This dynamic approach helps optimize the mining process, minimize operational risks, and directly contributes to the continuity and economic efficiency of the entire mining operation.

2. How has training or on-the-job learning supported your development?

Workplace learning has significantly accelerated my professional development, particularly in the field of geological digitalization. A key milestone was mastering specialized software for managing geological databases and advanced systems used for deposit planning and exploration. Gaining practical experience with these tools has enabled me to interpret structural geological data with much greater accuracy. Regular safety training has also played an equally important role. Combining technological expertise with a strong awareness of natural hazards has shaped my responsible engineering approach and strengthened my ability to support informed project decisions in everyday operations.

3. What skill do you think will be most critical for the future of mining?

In my opinion, the most important skill for the future of mining will be the ability to integrate traditional geological and mining knowledge with modern digital technologies and automation. The future of the industry belongs to professionals who can manage large datasets and apply artificial intelligence algorithms to predict hazards and optimize mining operations. Equally important will be adaptability and the ability to respond quickly to increasingly demanding environmental regulations and the principles of the circular economy. Responsible mining of the future will require balancing economic efficiency with minimizing environmental impact while ensuring safe and sustainable resource extraction.

Dimitra Karadimitra - Heavy Equipment Operator Assistant at the Skouries Project, Hellas Gold S.A.

Dimitra Karadimitra – Heavy Equipment Operator Assistant at the Skouries Project, Hellas Gold S.A.

1. What is the most important skill you’ve developed so far in your mining career?

The most important skill I have developed so far is responsibility. Learning to operate heavy equipment safely requires constant attention, precision and discipline. Over the past 18 months at Skouries, starting at the age of 19, I have learned the value of following procedures, staying alert and never taking anything for granted. In mining, every decision matters, and safety starts with each one of us. That is why I am proud to work for a modern, responsible mining company like Hellas Gold, where a strong safety culture is built every day through continuous training and shared commitment.

2. How has training or on-the-job learning supported your development?

Training and on-the-job learning have been essential in helping me turn that sense of responsibility into real capability. Although mining has always been part of my life, as many members of my family work in the mining industry, experiencing it firsthand is very different. At Hellas Gold, structured training, daily practice and the support of experienced colleagues have helped me build confidence, develop technical skills and better understand what the job requires in real conditions. This combination of learning and guidance has played a key role in my development and has shown me that young women from local communities can grow and progress in modern mining.

3. What skill do you think will be most critical for the future of mining?

I believe adaptability will be one of the most critical skills for the future of mining. The industry is evolving rapidly, with more advanced equipment, digital tools, and new ways of working. This must always go hand in hand with a strong safety mindset. At Hellas Gold’s Training Center, tools such as VR and AR simulators help us build skills in a safe environment before working in real conditions. This kind of learning prepares young people for the future, and I hope it encourages more women to see mining as an industry where they can truly belong and succeed.

Tomislav Stjepan Kalinic - Senior Project Manager Mining, RHI Magnesita GmbH

Tomislav Stjepan Kalinic – Senior Project Manager Mining, RHI Magnesita GmbH

1. What is the most important skill you’ve developed so far in your mining career?

The most important skill I’ve developed is being able to combine technical and business thinking. As a mining engineer with a background in financial management, I learned that good decisions are not only technically sound but also economically viable. This has also enabled me to act as an interface between operations and management, translating operational challenges into business terms and vice versa. It helps me look at challenges from different angles and work effectively with both technical and business teams.

2. How has training or on-the-job learning supported your development?

Most of my development has come through on-the-job learning. Working on different projects and with experienced colleagues helped me understand how mining works in practice. Formal training provided the technical foundation, but real growth came from solving day-to-day challenges, taking on new responsibilities, and learning from people with different backgrounds and expertise. Continuous learning has helped me adapt to new situations and technologies throughout my career.

3. What skill do you think will be most critical for the future of mining?

I believe adaptability will be the most critical skill for the future of mining. Our industry is changing rapidly, and mining professionals need to change with it. Whether it’s new technologies, different ways of working, or evolving sustainability requirements, continuous learning and an open mindset will be essential. Technical skills remain the foundation, but the ability to adapt to changing conditions will be key to long-term success.

Olga Delgado Fimia - Technician, AMINER

Olga Delgado Fimia – Technician, AMINER (Spanish Association of Metal Mining Companies)

1. What is the most important skill you’ve developed so far in your mining career?

The most valuable skill I have developed is bringing together different stakeholders and perspectives. Working at AMINER has taught me how to coordinate companies, public authorities and industry experts while addressing regulatory, environmental and operational challenges. My background in biology has helped me better understand the environmental dimension of mining, allowing me to contribute to informed discussions that support a responsible and competitive mining sector.

2. How has training or on-the-job learning supported your development?

Before joining AMINER, I had a very different perception of the mining sector. Through my work across different areas of the association, including environmental, regulatory, safety, labour and innovation topics, I have gained a broader understanding of the complexity behind modern mining. Continuous training and the knowledge shared by our member companies and experts have been essential to my development. Being involved in initiatives such as the MIN BREF process has also helped me understand the scale of the challenges faced by the sector and the importance of collaboration, knowledge sharing, and continuous improvement.

3. What skill do you think will be most critical for the future of mining?

The future of mining will require a combination of digital skills and multidisciplinary collaboration. Digitalisation will continue transforming the sector, but attracting and developing new talent is equally important. Mining needs professionals from many fields—engineering, environmental sciences, biology, data science, and more. Bringing together different areas of expertise will be essential to build an innovative, sustainable, and competitive mining industry.

Arnaud Bio-Agbenga - Senior Sales Representative, Caterpillar Inc.

Arnaud Bio-Agbenga – Senior Sales Representative, Caterpillar Inc.

1. What is the most important skill you’ve developed so far in your mining career?

Mining is all about solving our customers’ toughest challenges and creating value. Throughout my career in mining, I have learned that success comes from understanding our customers’ businesses as deeply as we understand our own. Our customers seek partners who can help them improve safety, productivity, uptime, and navigate workforce constraints. Over the years, I have developed the ability to connect technical and commercial solutions to help our customers achieve these outcomes and deliver meaningful results.

2. How has training or on-the-job learning supported your development?

My development has been driven by a combination of formal training and hands-on experience. Early in my career, my background in data analytics helped me build a structured approach to problem solving. As I transitioned into mining, I learned directly from experienced colleagues, product specialists, dealers, and customers. The most valuable lessons came from real-world situations, whether developing strategic agreements or engaging with customers. These experiences have shown me the importance of continuous learning and adaptability. Caterpillar has played a key role in my development by providing exposure to different functions, cultures, and business environments.

3. What skill do you think will be most critical for the future of mining?

Mining has grown rapidly in areas such as artificial intelligence and digital solutions, and it continues to be a pioneer in autonomous hauling systems and advanced technologies. Keeping pace with these advancements is still relevant now more than ever. At the same time, human skills such as collaboration, customer engagement, and adaptability will remain essential. I believe that professionals who can combine business insight, technology, and data to develop innovative solutions, while demonstrating emotional intelligence, will create significant value for the future of mining.

Lucía Martel Paredes - Hydrogeologist Jr., Minera Los Frailes

Lucía Martel Paredes – Hydrogeologist Jr., Minera Los Frailes

1. What is the most important skill you’ve developed so far in your mining career?

One of the most important skills I have developed during my career in mining is the ability to work safely and responsibly, understanding that safety must always come above any objective. Over time, I have learned to identify risks while performing the work, anticipate possible problems, and make better decisions in the field. I have also greatly improved my communication and teamwork skills, and in turn, I have learned more about data management and the details of each task carried out in a department, because in a mining operation it is essential to coordinate well with colleagues, share information, and support each other to achieve good results.

2. How has training or on-the-job learning supported your development?

Mentoring and daily learning on the job have been key to my professional growth. The courses and training sessions have taught me not only about my work but also about the set of tasks carried out within a team and to have a better understanding of the procedures, but a large part of the learning has also come from day-to-day experience and from working alongside people with more experience in this sector. Each situation has been an opportunity to learn, improve the way of doing things, and gain more confidence when facing new challenges.

3. What skill do you think will be most critical for the future of mining?

I believe that one of the most important skills for the future of mining will be the ability to adapt and keep learning constantly. The industry and job responsibilities are changing quickly and constantly with the incorporation of new technologies, automation, and digital tools, so it will be necessary for workers to be willing to update their knowledge and acquire new skills while integrating new updates. However, I also believe that maintaining skills such as teamwork, communication, and the ability to make good decisions will continue to be essential, since technology must be accompanied by people’s knowledge and experience to make good use of both.

Cumhur Erdem Karahan - Process Engineer, Gübretaş Maden Yatırımları A.Ş.

Cumhur Erdem Karahan – Process Engineer, Gübretaş Maden Yatırımları A.Ş.

1. What is the most important skill you’ve developed so far in your mining career?

The most valuable skill I have developed is turning technical knowledge into practical improvements. Working in a gold processing plant has taught me that success depends on understanding both the process and the people operating it. I have contributed to process optimization, operator training, and continuous improvement projects by transforming complex metallurgical concepts into practical actions. This ability has helped improve operational performance while creating a stronger learning culture within the plant.

2. How has training or on-the-job learning supported your development?

On-the-job learning has shown me that mining is constantly evolving. Working with process data, automation systems, and metallurgical investigations has helped me understand how small operational improvements can create significant value. Continuous learning has enabled me to contribute to process optimization while adapting to new technologies and sharing best practices with my team.

3. What skill do you think will be most critical for the future of mining?

The most critical skill will be the ability to combine digital technologies with practical engineering knowledge. Future mining professionals must understand process data, automation, and real-time monitoring while maintaining strong operational awareness. However, technology alone is not enough. The engineers who create the greatest value will be those who can translate data into better decisions, safer operations, and more sustainable production while supporting the development of their teams.

Patricia Jaime - Environmental Supervisor, Cobre Las Cruces

Patricia Jaime – Environmental Supervisor, Cobre Las Cruces

1. What is the most important skill you’ve developed so far in your mining career?

The most important skill I have developed is adaptability. In mining, every project brings different challenges, so it’s essential to be flexible and find effective solutions in changing scenarios. I’ve also learned the value of good work planning and collaborating with colleagues from other departments. That coordination across areas allows us to anticipate needs, optimise resources and achieve better results, especially on environmental matters.

2. How has training or on-the-job learning supported your development?

The best training I’ve received has come from combining technical knowledge with hands-on experience, sharing situations and feedback with colleagues from other departments. Watching environmental restoration projects evolve, monitoring wildlife, or analysing the behaviour of water and air emissions has allowed me to learn something new every day and keep growing professionally.

3. What skill do you think will be most critical for the future of mining?

I believe the most critical skill for the future of mining will be reconciling the production of resources society needs with responsible environmental management. In my experience as an environmental supervisor, I’ve found that the best solutions are those that integrate technical knowledge, sustainability and a long-term vision.

Barış Özkorkmaz – Mining Operations Engineer, Öksüt Madencilik San. Tic. A.Ş.

Barış Özkorkmaz – Mining Operations Engineer, Öksüt Madencilik San. Tic. A.Ş

1. What is the most important skill you’ve developed so far in your mining career?

I believe the most important skill I have developed throughout my mining career is effective communication. I realized its value during a night shift when the windshield of a production machine was damaged and no spare glass was available. To avoid interrupting production, I quickly coordinated with the operations and maintenance teams to remove a suitable windshield from an idle machine and install it on the damaged equipment. The machine was back in operation in a short time. This experience showed me that strong communication and teamwork are essential for solving challenges in the field.

2. How has training or on-the-job learning supported your development?

My professional growth has been shaped by both formal training and hands-on experience. In particular, MineSight training helped me better interpret digital mine plans and connect them with field applications. I supported the accurate implementation of excavation and production plans on site. Working alongside experienced operators, supervisors and engineers also allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge in real operations. These experiences strengthened my technical skills, improved my problem-solving abilities and reflected the strong learning culture promoted by my company.

3. What skill do you think will be most critical for the future of mining?

I believe the most critical skill for the future of mining will be the ability to adapt to change while combining technology with field experience. Artificial intelligence and digital twin technologies will enable real-time monitoring of mining operations and more informed decision-making. Autonomous equipment communicating with one another will further optimize production. However, the success of these technologies will ultimately depend on people who can interpret data accurately, integrate technology with practical field knowledge and embrace continuous learning.

Euromines at NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum: Strengthening Europe’s defence supply chains starts with secure raw materials

On 7 July 2026, Euromines President Jan Moström joined senior representatives from the semiconductor, automotive and defence industries at the NATO Summit Defence Industry Forum in Ankara for the high-level panel discussion, “Resilient by Design: Future-proofing Allied Supply Chains.”

The discussion highlighted a growing consensus: as geopolitical tensions increase and strategic competition intensifies, resilient industrial value chains begin with secure and reliable access to critical raw materials. Europe’s industrial competitiveness, technological leadership and defence readiness all depend on a strong and resilient upstream supply base.

During the panel, Jan Moström outlined four key policy priorities to strengthen Europe’s industrial preparedness:

Transition from “just-in-time” to “just-in-case” supply chains to improve resilience.

Establish stable and predictable investment conditions, recognising that mining projects require long-term policy certainty measured in decades rather than years.

Build and maintain strategic supply chains during peacetime to ensure readiness in times of crisis.

Reduce legislative fragmentation and unnecessary administrative burdens to accelerate the development of strategic mining and processing projects across Europe.

The panel also featured:

Lars Reger, Chief Technology Officer, NXP Semiconductors
Javier Escribano, President, Escribano Mechanical & Engineering (EM&E)
Sigrid de Vries, Director General, European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association (ACEA)
Anca Agachi, Co-Lead of the Alliances Portfolio in the National Security Research Division and Defence Policy Analyst at RAND (moderator)

The discussion reinforced that secure access to critical raw materials must be recognised as a strategic priority for strengthening Europe’s industrial resilience and defence capabilities. A resilient defence industrial base begins long before manufacturing, it starts with a competitive, responsible and resilient European mining sector, supported by coherent policies, streamlined regulation and long-term investment certainty.

Joint Statement – SHOs – Declaration for a Bold FP10: Investing in Research, Development and Innovation to Boost European Productivity and Competitiveness

Europe stands at a decisive juncture. The Draghi report on European Competitiveness has laid bare a stark reality: Europe’s productivity growth has stalled, its innovation gap with the United States and China is widening, and the continent risks a slow but irreversible decline in its economic standing. At the same time, the Competitiveness Compass and the EU’s political guidelines place research, development and innovation (RD&I) at the heart of Europe’s strategy to reverse this trend. We, the undersigned — 86 European associations representing key RD&I stakeholders — fully endorse this diagnosis and urgently call on EU Institutions to act with commensurate ambition in designing and funding the next Framework Programme for Research and Innovation (FP10).

The Draghi report calls for an additional €800 billion per year in investment to close Europe’s competitiveness gap, with RD&I as the primary driver of sustainable productivity gains. Innovation-led productivity growth is not merely an economic imperative — it is the only credible path to financing Europe’s green and digital transitions, its open strategic autonomy, and its social model. FP10 is the EU’s principal instrument for catalysing this transformation. Its track record of leveraging private investment, maturing technologies, and building the cross-border collaborative ecosystems that no single Member State can replicate alone makes it uniquely placed to deliver at the scale and speed Europe requires.

Yet current EU RD&I spending remains wholly insufficient relative to this challenge. Europe invests significantly less in R&D as a share of GDP than its main global competitors, and the leverage effects of the Framework Programme — demonstrated conclusively by the Horizon 2020 ex-post evaluation — mean that every euro of EU public investment generates multiples in private and national co-investment. Cutting or stagnating FP10’s budget would be a false economy: it would undermine precisely the public-private partnerships, the technology maturation pipelines, and the talent networks that are indispensable to restoring European productivity growth.

We therefore call on EU Institutions to:

Allocate a substantially increased budget to FP10, commensurate with the ambition set out in the Draghi report and the Competitiveness Compass, over the 2028–2034 MFF period;
Reinforce collaborative, industry-driven RD&I through a strengthened Pillar II, ensuring that public-private partnerships continue to reduce investment risk, accelerate technology maturation and translate research excellence into market-ready innovations that boost productivity;
Ensure FP10 together with ECF support the full RD&I continuum — from fundamental research to deployment and scale-up — aligned with EU strategic priorities and clearly defined industrial needs, including the green and digital transitions and European security and resilience. Preserving a strong ECF and FP10, both in terms of budget and in terms of governance and synergies between the two programmes is essential to support the entire innovation cycle, strengthen Europe’s industrial base, and deliver on the Union’s competitiveness objectives.

The window of opportunity is narrow. Decisions taken in the coming months on the next MFF will determine whether Europe has the RD&I firepower to compete globally and sustain its prosperity. We, the undersigned associations, stand ready to work with EU Institutions to design an FP10 that is bold, well-resourced, and fit to deliver the innovation-driven productivity growth Europe urgently needs.