Spain invests €197 million in aerial mineral resource mapping

Spain has launched a five-year geological research program with an estimated investment of €197 million. The initiative involves aerial surveys covering 100,000 square kilometers across three geological zones in western and southern Spain to map magnetic, radiometric, and gravimetric data.

The Geological and Mining Institute of Spain plans to utilize artificial intelligence to analyze the collected data and develop predictive geological models. Susana Timon, a department director at the Institute, stated that the primary goal is to improve knowledge of the country's mineral resources to encourage further exploration by mining companies.

In the Andalusia region, efforts are underway to attract mining investors by streamlining permit processes and providing access to hundreds of locations where mineral exploitation concessions have expired. This movement aligns with European Union goals to secure at least 10% of its annual consumption of strategic raw materials domestically by 2030.

In North Macedonia, the Geological Survey has been tasked with a two-year analysis of critical metal and mineral extraction and recycling potential, in coordination with the Ministry of Energy, Mining, and Mineral Resources.