On December 9-10, 2024, the workshop “Raw Materials and Geomaterials: Challenges and Industrial Applications” took place at Sapienza University of Rome, in a hybrid format. Organized by the National GABeC Group and the Italian Society of Mineralogy and Petrology (SIMP), with the patronage of Assorisorse and the National Council of Geologists (CNG), the event provided a significant platform for dialogue between the scientific community, industry, and institutions.

With over 500 participants, including academics, professionals, and representatives from public and private sectors, the workshop addressed key topics such as the management of critical and strategic raw materials, sustainability in the extractive sector, and innovative approaches for recycling and reusing waste materials. These themes are central to the energy transition and the strengthening of European and national industrial policies.

The event was opened by Prof. Antonella Polimeni, Rector of Sapienza University of Rome, who highlighted the crucial role of academic education in the responsible management of resources. Key institutional contributions emphasized the need for synergy between academia, industry, and government:

• Dr. Alberto Castronovo (Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy) underscored the importance of a systemic approach and a strategic fund for resource management.

• Dr. Gianluca Cusano (Ministry of Environment and Energy Security) discussed the implications of the European Critical Raw Material Act.

• Dr. Fiorenzo Fumanti (ISPRA) focused on the role of mapping extractive waste for sustainable planning at both national and European levels.

The workshop strongly emphasized several priorities for the future:

• The need for a unified European strategy for raw material supply.

• The importance of multidisciplinary geosciences in addressing environmental challenges.

• The growing demand for specialized professionals, such as geologists and technical experts, who are essential for resource management and the entire extractive sector.

Among the key initiatives presented, the establishment of a second-level inter-university Master’s program for advanced training in mineral deposit assessment and management was announced by Prof. Elena Belluso, President of GABeC.

The workshop highlighted the pivotal role of Earth Sciences in achieving energy transition and sustainability goals, stressing the need for ongoing collaboration between research, industry, and institutions.

Prof. Paolo Nimis, professor of Mineral Georesources at the Department of Geosciences, contributed with a presentation titled "An Introduction to Mineral Resources and Critical Raw Materials: Where, How, and How Much?". The presentation examined various aspects of mineral resources, including their use in everyday life, their role in the energy transition, future availability models, attention to environmental issues, and the need for clear and effective communication.