Setting standards for critical raw materials: state of play and future prospects
Updated on 29.07.2025
As the EU seeks to secure access to Critical Raw Materials (CRMs), CRM-related technical standardisation has been gaining increasing policy attention. This CEPS In-Depth Analysis examines the role, state and future prospects of CRMsrelated standardisation from an EU perspective. It begins with an overview of the key benefits and actors in both the EU and global technical standardisation system.
It then maps key recent developments and initiatives in CRM standardisation, in the EU and globally. Drawing on consultations with experts, it then identifies three fundamental risks and challenges – the limited participation of EU stakeholders and experts, specific content gaps in recycling and traceability, and a highly fragmented ESG standardisation landscape. Finally, it provides some policy recommendations to help address these challenges and to enhance the EU’s role in CRM standardisation.
Relevance for Circular Systemic Solutions
The report "Setting Standards for Critical Raw Materials" targets value chains and sectors linked to the metals and minerals industry, with a focus on Critical Raw Materials (CRMs) such as rare earth elements, lithium, and specialty metals, which are essential for clean technologies, electric vehicles, ICT, and defence.
Its practical value for cities and regions lies in its policy recommendations and insights into how standardisation supports sustainable sourcing, traceability, and recycling, aligning with the EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act to enhance local supply chain transparency and circularity. The document provides clear guidance on integrating technological innovation with standardisation frameworks, helping local and regional stakeholders adapt to and anticipate compliance with EU regulations, foster investment in sustainable recycling infrastructure, and encourage industrial clustering.
The findings are most relevant at the “implement” stage of a Circular Systemic Solutions, as they address the need for concrete technical standards to ensure circular practices are not only possible but verifiable and scalable across borders.
CEAP2 key product value chain
CEAP2 key product value chain
digital tools facilitating CE transition
e.g. chemicals, cosmetics, bio-based industries
e.g. electrical engineering, furniture and interior, textile and fashion
<5 000
large 500 000-200 000, medium 200 000-50 000, and small cities 50 000-5 000
large metropolitan area >1.5 million, metropolitan area 1.5 million-500 000
predominantly urban regions, intermediate and predominantly rural regions, refer to TERCET typology NUTS 3 region
e.g. commercial, residential, service, industrial
