Poland launches national critical raw materials exploration program

Poland has launched the National Critical Raw Materials Exploration Program to identify and assess the availability of strategic resources within the country. Led by the Polish Geological Institute – National Research Institute (PIG–PIB), the initiative was developed at the request of the Chief Geologist of the Country and involves collaboration with academic institutions including AGH, the University of Warsaw, and the University of Wrocław.

Currently, Poland produces four key EU-listed critical raw materials: copper, coking coal, feldspar, and helium. The program aims to expand this list by investigating potential rare earth elements within polymetallic copper deposits and exploring historical mining waste, such as tailings, for recoverable elements. The research will utilize geological drilling and geophysical methods to map new deposits.

The program, which is scheduled to run until 2031, is a response to EU requirements for member states to report critical raw material strategies to Brussels. While the findings could significantly bolster Poland's economy and strategic security, experts note that securing social acceptance for new mining projects, particularly in regions like Upper and Lower Silesia, remains a major challenge.