Brussels, 20 September 2017. On 22-24 September, during European Minerals Day 2017, more than 130 quarries and plants in 27 countries open their doors to the public. This unique pan-European event happening only once every two years, attracts around 30.000 people eager to find out what goes on behind the gates of a quarry, mine or plant, and have the opportunity to explore the world of minerals through the offered entertaining and educational experience. Typical activities include school visits, guided tours, workshops, exhibitions, biodiversity projects, and many more.

Participating countries: Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Germany, Spain, Estonia,

Finland, France, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Serbia, Sweden, Slovenia,

Turkey, United Kingdom, Ukraine, as well as North America, Brazil, Malaysia and South Africa. To find an event nearby, visit www.mineralsday.eu.  

Euromines President Mark Rachovides was recently interviewed by Mining Journal about his career and insights into the European mining world, with a special focus on his Greek heritage and knowledge of mining in that region. He specifically discusses the challenge many mining companies face of understanding how the EU works when they want to start doing business in Europe. 

On June 15, the first workshop was held to discuss challenges and opportunities around investment possibilities between the EU and Canada across the entire non-energy extractive industry (NEEI) value chain. The workshop was attended by critical members of the NEEI value chain who are potential future partners in the endeavor. 

A top priority for the European extractive industry is keeping workers as safe as possible. To do that, companies must make health and safety more than just a priority – it must be deeply embedded in the culture of an organisation.