The resurgence of mining and mineral exploration in Europe continues to be a pressing issue, particularly in the context of escalating trade disputes with China and the disruption of critical raw materials and energy supplies from Russia and Ukraine. The success of Europe’s green transition, climate change mitigation, and the competitiveness of various industries, including automotive and energy, heavily depend on securing essential minerals and metals.

The 8th MINEX Europe Forum, held in Prague, Czech Republic, served as a neutral platform for a candid and professional discussion on the current challenges and potential solutions within the mining and mineral exploration sector. The Forum focused on the sector's role in meeting Europe's needs for essential metals and minerals, while promoting the highest standards in mining and post-mining reconciliation.

The Forum brough together stakeholders involved in the development of Critical Raw Materials projects in countries such as Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Ireland, Finland, France, Norway, Portugal, Kosovo, Serbia, Spain, Slovakia and Ukraine.

Over 40 presenters from 38 organisations shared insights on the practical impacts of proposed reforms aimed at revitalising Europe's mining and supply chains. They also discussed the regulatory, funding, social, environmental, and technological challenges that often hinder promising projects and opportunities.

On 24 October the Forum participants visited DIAMO – a state funded organisation responsible for post-uranium mining reconciliation. This visit highlighted the extensive efforts involved in decontaminating the subsoil and restoring the land to a usable condition, a project expected to be completed by 2042 with an estimated cost of €2 billion.

The video recordings of the Forum sessions and the presented slides will be available on 11 November 2024 via this link.

Looking ahead, the 9th MINEX Europe Mining and Exploration Forum is scheduled to take place in Lisbon in October 2025. Interested parties can register their interest by completing the provided form below.