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Streamlining cross-sectoral policy framework throughout the extractive life-cycle in environmentally protected areas (CSA)

 

Reconciling the increasing demand for Critical Raw Materials necessary for the EU climate neutral ambition, with nature protection, restoration and biodiversity enhancement, requires strengthening the raw materials policy framework. Streamlining more efficient, effective and transparent permitting procedures throughout the mineral extraction life-cycle in environmentally protected areas, would contribute to securing the sustainable access to primary raw materials, whilst taking into account and reconciling requirements in environmentally protected areas.

The actions should contribute to the exchange of good practices in permitting procedures related to extractive activities that may have an impact on environmentally protected areas. They should focus on reviewing good practices at the permitting stage in areas such as evaluating natural background conditions previous to the mineral extraction, evaluating the impact on human health and biodiversity, as well as foreseen nature protection and restoration measures. Particular attention will have to be paid to the legal obligations and practices ensuring compliance with EU nature legislation (Birds and Habitats Directives) and the goals of the EU Biodiversity Strategy for 2030.

The actions should analyse cross-sectorial policy coordination and integration covering economic, environmental and social aspects in the value chain of the extractive life cycle from finding and access to deposits to closure and rehabilitation, while focusing on the contribution of streamlined permitting procedures to deliver on the climate ambition of the European Green Deal.

The actions should develop and disseminate analyses (including on the most affected raw materials, categories of sites, pressures, impact assessment methods, mitigation and compensation measures etc.) and training material; organise capacity-building workshops and seminars for competent authorities, industry and civil society in different Member States and other countries in Europe. These activities can also address other countries that are eligible to participate.

All the data and information generated through these actions should be shared in open formats on a free of charge basis with the European Commission, for its own use and for publication.

Proposals should take into account issues of accessibility and inclusivity, such as age, gender, disability, and socio-economic background.