Rare earths: EU seeks alternatives to China for critical raw materials

The EU is working on a plan aimed at achieving independence from imports from China in this area, von der Leyen explained. Brussels is "orienting itself on the initiative that helped us overcome the energy crisis together after (Russian President Vladimir) Putin denied us access to Russian fossil fuels."

Recycling as a central part of the plan

According to von der Leyen, recycling is an important aspect of the plan. "Some companies can recycle up to 95 percent of critical raw materials and batteries," said the EU Commission President. At the same time, the EU will seek to establish "partnerships on critical raw materials with countries such as Ukraine , Australia, Canada , Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Chile, and Greenland."