Around the world, governments are evaluating supply chain vulnerabilities and designating certain minerals and materials as essential to national and economic security.
In late November 2024, the United Kingdom (UK) officially released a list of 34 critical raw minerals in its 2024 UK Criticality Assessment. Months before, the European Union (EU) adopted the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA), which identified 34 critical raw materials and imposed strict legislative requirements.
But what does it mean to be classified as critical? What do you need to know about the different approaches to ensuring secure, diversified, and sustainable supply chains?
Understanding the differences between the UK’s Criticality Assessment and the EU’s CRMA can help you anticipate future policy shifts and prepare for current or future requirements when sourcing boron or other inputs.
Comparing the CRMA to the Criticality Assessment
Although they are separate, the UK and EU share a common goal: Securing a sustainable and stable supply of critical raw materials and minerals. However, their approaches, scope, and implementation vary.
Terminology: Minerals vs materials
One key distinction is in terminology. The UK refers to “critical minerals,” which primarily relates to raw and processed resources. On the other hand, the EU uses the term “critical raw materials,” which is concentrated on extracted raw resources.
Legal and policy impact
It’s important to understand that the UK’s Criticality Assessment is an advisory framework that evaluates supply risks and informs policy decisions. It does not currently impose any legal mandates, compliance requirements, or reporting obligations.
In contrast, the EU’s CRMA is a legally binding regulatory set of acts that require member countries to meet strict targets for domestic mining, processing, and recycling. The CRMA’s intent is to reduce dependency on imports and strengthen supply chain resiliency by setting the following benchmarks for 2030:
- Extraction: At least 10% of the EU’s annual consumption must come from domestic extraction
- Processing: At least 40% must be processed within the EU
- Recycling: At least 25% must come from recycled materials
- Diversification: No more than 65% of the EU’s annual consumption of each raw material at any relevant stage of processing should come from a single third country
Scope and implementation
The UK’s more flexible approach allows the government to adapt policies based on evolving supply chain risks. The focus is on building international partnerships, enhancing domestic capabilities, and promoting recycling and reuse, instead of imposing strict quotas.
In the EU, the CRMA sets specific mandates. Companies must adhere to monitoring and compliance measures to ensure they meet CRMA targets.
What makes a raw material ‘critical?’
Generally, a mineral or material is classified as “critical” if it’s:
- Essential to energy and transportation infrastructure, digital, defense, or space applications
- Vulnerable to supply risks
Each region or country determines whether a mineral or material is declared critical. For example, boron is currently not considered a designated critical mineral on the U.S. Geological Survey list, but it is classified as critical in the EU and UK.
Why is boron considered critical in the EU and UK?
There are three main reasons:
- High supply risk
- Limited alternatives
- Essential to applications
Supply risk
Both the EU and UK are entirely dependent on imports of borates because no boron deposits exist within their borders. The Government of Turkey, a non-EU member, controls a large boron mine, which provides a large portion of supply to the EU. But much of these borates are unrefined—which limits their use in certain industries. That presents a substantial supply risk.
Limited alternatives
In many applications, boron can’t be replaced or has limited alternatives.
Essential to modern applications
Boron is a versatile element that’s integral to numerous industries and emerging technologies such as advanced batteries and nuclear energy.
The EU also considers boron a strategic material due to its use in metallurgy.
How does this impact your boron procurement?
Boron’s critical designation presents several challenges that procurement teams must navigate.
New compliance and reporting requirements
Depending on your region, you may be required to track and report on the boron sources in your supply chain, including mapping its origin and where it’s processed.
Shift toward reliable partners
If most of your boron is from a single source, you will likely need to diversify and seek another partner, preferably one with a record of stability and quality.
Diversify your supply chain with Borax Europe
For decades, European customers have counted on Borax Europe as a reliable partner. Our refined borate products ensure greater consistency and help keep your processes in-spec so you can produce high-quality finished products.
By choosing Borax Europe, you can enjoy several competitive advantages.
Dedicated customer support
We operate across multiple time zones. Each member of our sales, technical marketing, and customer service teams are multilingual, helping to improve communication and accuracy.
Technical expertise
Our experts draw from a rich history of research and product development. We provide tailored recommendations on products, formulations, and specifications to help you navigate any regulatory requirements.
Product stewardship
If you need help with local registrations, our product stewardship team specializes in market compliance and we are closely tied to the world’s only borate-specific industry association—the European Borates Association.
Reliable logistics and nearby operations
Borax Europe’s distribution network is backed by Rio Tinto’s massive infrastructure and all of our sites are strategically placed. We work closely with you to optimize the delivery details, so you can continue to run without disruption.
We have conveniently located warehouses and operational sites to bring refined borates closer to you. Our long-established presence in Europe enables us to apply local market knowledge to better support your organization.
Learn more about Borax Europe operations
Have questions about boron sourcing?
Whether you’re in the UK or EU, get the guidance you need to successfully navigate boron’s critical designation in your region by contacting our sales team.
If you have specific questions for your industry, our team is happy to assist.
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