European Parliament Passes Critical Raw Materials Act, Starts Talks With Council

The European Parliament approved draft legislation to support the supply of strategic raw materials. The Critical Raw Materials Act would "cut red tape, promote innovation along the entire value chain, support [small and medium-sized enterprises] and boost research and the development alternative materials and more environmentally-friendly mining and production methods." The act was adopted Sept. 14 by vote of 515-34, with 28 abstentions. Negotiations will now begin between the parliament and Spanish presidency of the European Council.