Mineral resources and the circular economy
The partner interview
Benjamin Gallezot Inter-ministerial Delegate for Strategic Metals and Minerals Supply (DIAMMS)
What are the new challenges in terms of procuring strategic metals and minerals?
Benjamin Gallezot – The need for strategic metals is set to rise sharply over the coming decades, particularly as part of the energy transition. Ensuring a steady supply of these metals is a major issue for our industry, and the government has embarked on an ambitious policy to mobilise all stakeholders.
BRGM has a very important role to play in this matter. It is one of the key players in our strategy, and one of the main partners responsible for its implementation. It already has extensive knowledge of critical minerals and metals, and is currently re-prioritising this issue as part of its activities.
What projects are involved?
B.G. – Firstly, OFREMI. Founded following the Varin report on the supply of strategic metals, the French Observatory of Mineral Resources for Industrial Sectors (OFREMI) was set up a year and a half ago. BRGM is one of the key players, coordinating the action of the various public institutions involved.
Secondly, the inventory of mineral and mining resources (IRM). Following a decision announced by the President of France in September 2023, the aim is to relaunch an exploration and inventory programme that has not been carried out for many years, using new techniques and new know-how. BRGM is the project manager. We expect regular results, and cooperation with an ecosystem of companies, laboratories and university centres, so that we can apply the best technologies, particularly artificial intelligence. An important aspect will be to make this data available.
Does metal diplomacy also concern BRGM?
B.G. – In what we call ‘metals diplomacy’, international cooperation between geological surveys is crucial. BRGM is a major player in this technical cooperation in Europe and around the world, and we are stepping up our partnerships with new countries.
Lastly, BRGM and DIAMMS are aiming for a better coordinated R&D strategy that brings together all the players in academia and industry, and that is more ambitious in terms of innovation.
