On the occasion of World Environment Day, La Nueva Crónica has published a special feature highlighting the role of critical raw materials, technological innovation and sustainable mining in the context of Europe’s green and energy transition.

The article, entitled “Raw Materials and Innovation: León’s Contribution to Europe’s Environmental Challenge”, examines some of the key challenges facing Europe in ensuring the responsible supply of the mineral resources required for the development of strategic technologies such as renewable energy, electric mobility and digital infrastructure.

The publication also focuses on the contribution of León and its business, scientific and technological ecosystem to the development of a more sustainable, resilient raw materials value chain aligned with European climate objectives.

León: A Strategic Territory for Raw Materials in Europe

The feature highlights León’s role as a key territory within the European raw materials ecosystem. Its significant geological heritage, industrial capabilities, strong business network, and the presence of leading research and innovation organisations make the province a strategic location for addressing the challenges associated with the green transition.

Collaboration between companies, technology centres, research organisations and public authorities is essential to consolidating this position and creating sustainable development opportunities for the region.

Commitment to Modern and Responsible Mining

The green transition requires raw materials, but it also depends on knowledge, technology, dialogue and a strong commitment to local communities. For this reason, ISMC continues to promote a modern, responsible mining sector aligned with the highest environmental, social and governance (ESG) standards.

Through collaboration, innovation and knowledge transfer, we continue to support initiatives that contribute to securing a sustainable supply of critical raw materials for Europe, while generating economic, social and environmental value for the communities in which we operate.

The Social Licence to Operate: A Priority for the Future of the Sector

One of the topics addressed in the article is the growing importance of the Social Licence to Operate (SLO), a concept that refers to the level of acceptance and trust that communities place in projects related to raw materials and mining activities.

Public participation, transparent communication and the creation of shared value have become essential elements in ensuring the success of any initiative linked to the responsible development of mineral resources.

Recognising this reality, ISMC incorporates these principles into its strategy and participates in European projects such as the Raw Materials SLO PLUS HUB, promoted by EIT RawMaterials, which aims to develop new methodologies and tools to strengthen the social acceptance of critical raw materials projects across Europe.

Raising Awareness of the Role of Raw Materials in the Green Transition

The feature published by La Nueva Crónica helps bring to society an increasingly important debate for Europe’s future: the need to secure responsibly sourced raw materials in order to enable the energy and digital transitions.

At ISMC, we would like to thank the newspaper for the opportunity to showcase the work carried out by companies, organisations and professionals across the sector, as well as the important role played by territories such as León in building a modern, innovative and sustainability-driven mining industry.

The full feature can be consulted in La Nueva Crónica.