EXPO 2025 – Osaka, Japan

Nordic Critical Raw Materials

Introduction to the EU Day on Critical Raw Materials by Jenny Valind

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At the Nordic Pavilion’s Critical Raw Materials Day, experts from Japan, the Nordic countries, and the EU gathered to discuss how to build sustainable and secure supply chains for critical minerals – essential for the green and digital transition. The event highlighted shared interests in resource efficiency, circular economy, and industrial cooperation.

“The circular economy is not a choice. It’s a necessity for the green transition and systemic change. Industries and regions need to work together to ensure that resources last for future generations,” said Niina Aagaard, Head of Communications at the Nordic Council of Ministers.

The circular economy is not a choice. It’s a necessity for the green transition and systemic change. Industries and regions need to work together to ensure that resources last for future generations.
Niina Aagaard, Head of Communications at the Nordic Council of Ministers

Conclusion

The event underscored that circular economy solutions and international collaboration are key to reducing resource dependency and achieving climate neutrality. Japan and the Nordic countries share strong traditions of technological innovation and sustainability, making their partnership a natural fit for addressing the global demand for critical raw materials.

Nordic Contribution

The Nordic Council of Ministers and its institutions contributed Nordic perspectives on resource circularity and policy coherence. The event built on ongoing Nordic–European cooperation under the Nordic Vision 2030 framework, which aims to make the region the world’s most sustainable and integrated by 2030.

→ Watch the broadcast here: EXPO 2025: EU sessions on critical raw materials - YouTube