MR proposes relaunch of mining in Belgium
Francophone liberal party MR is proposing to relaunch mining in Belgium, with a call for the reconstruction of a complete value chain, from mine to recycling. The energy transition is causing demand for metals to skyrocket and Europe must reduce its dependence on China in particular, the party's research centre said on Tuesday.
MR wants to start with a geological prospecting campaign “with adequate public funding”. In an initial exploitation phase, pilot projects could follow, for example for lead, zinc and germanium in Kelmis in Liège province or phosphates in Hainaut, according to the study by the Centre Jean Gol, the party's research centre.
“Reopening mines today is not a return to the 19th century, but a preparation for the future"
“Without metals or minerals, there can be no batteries, wind turbines, large-scale renovation of buildings or efficient electrical infrastructure,” the party warns. “Reopening mines today is not a return to the 19th century, but a preparation for the future with 21st-century standards: eco-design, automation, recycling and respect for the environment.”
According to the party, a change in the law is urgently needed. The legislation should not hinder the launch of mining projects “that comply with strict environmental and social requirements”, they argue. Their coalition partner, Les Engagés, also launched an appeal last month to reconsider the potential of mining, particularly for white hydrogen.
Last year, the European Union set concrete targets for critical raw materials. By 2030, at least 10 per cent of the strategic raw materials used in the EU must be extracted on its own soil, 40 per cent must be processed by the EU itself and 25 per cent must be recyclable.
Illustration © PHOTO AIZAR RALDES / AFP
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