At the beginning of September, the European Commission, in addition to publication of a modified List of Critical Raw Materials, presented specific measures it wants to implement to reduce European Union’s dependence on third country raw materials, increase the diversification of supplies and efficiency of the circular economy. One of these measures aimed to strengthen the role of critical raw materials was the establishing of the European Raw Materials Alliance (ERMA). The Alliance’s objectives include also creating jobs and supporting investments and innovations in the area of raw materials. This is not without a reason as they are key for Europe’s further development and its future depends on the development of such industries as construction, automotive, low-carbon energy-intensive industries and aviation, which are largely dependent on secure access to raw materials. ERMA’s task is to identify barriers and seek investment opportunities (through the Raw Material Investment Platform) and special solutions in accordance with the stakeholders’ needs.

The Alliance is open to all industrial stakeholders, national governments and regions, trade unions, research and technological organizations, investors and non-governmental organizations. JSW SA is the second Polish company, in addition to KGHM Polska Miedź, which belongs to the European Raw Materials Alliance.

– Reintroduction of coking coal in the EU List of Critical Raw Materials is very important to us as it confirms the strategic role of our company. Accession of Jastrzębska Spółka Węglowa to the Alliance means the possibility to monitor the legislative changes in the European Union and will facilitate seeking investors and establishing technological cooperation, says Włodzimierz Hereźniak, President of the JSW SA Management Board.​