Minventory, EU raw materials statistics on resources and reserves : final report

The European Commission commissioned this work to analyse the availability of public geological data (land and marine), and household, commercial and industrial waste data, related to resources and reserves of mineral raw materials. Many different organisations have amassed and even published aspects of such data. However, it is often presented in different formats using varying terminologies. An important aspect has therefore been the proposals for harmonising these protocols to ensure congruency in the presentation and use of statistical geological data. On the policy front, a unified source of statistical information for resources and reserves within the European Union is supported by three pillars set out in the European Raw Materials Initiative (RMI) of 2008: Access to raw materials on world markets at undistorted conditions. Foster sustainable supply of raw materials from European sources. Reduce the EU's consumption of primary raw materials This work contributes to the second pillar. However, specific data infrastructure needs were identified by DG Enterprise's Raw Materials Supply Group already in its April 2009 report, and include amalgamating such statistical information in an EU-wide harmonised database. This project has addressed these needs by identifying the barriers to achieving harmonised reporting systems and developing a roadmap and set of options for action in it. It should be noted that all the proposed actions are voluntary