The World of Raw Materials 2050

Book excerpt: The International Raw Materials Observatory will advance international cooperation mechanisms on mineral raw materials, as defined in thematic action plans addressing research and innovation, education and outreach, industry and trade, and recycling, management and substitution of critical raw materials. Considering that actions highly depend on potential future developments (and future developments can be influenced by actions), the scenario method was selected as an appropriate foresight methodology for developing 3 alternative future scenarios for raw materials in 2050. These provide a baseline set of potential future developments in the Action Plans. Within this brochure, the reader will gain insights into the methodology applied and into the main characteristics of each of the three future scenarios.