This session will explore the practical implementation of the United Nations Framework Classification for Resources (UNFC) focusing on applications to mineral deposits and related topics, such as those extracted from brines in geothermal fields. The session sets particular emphasis on its application in Europe in the context of the EU Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA). It calls for contributions reflecting on Strategic Projects, National Exploration Programmes, monitoring of critical raw materials projects and extractive waste as the CRMA establishes UNFC as key classification framework for various aspects of critical raw materials management.

Progress, practical experiences and emerging challenges related to the implementation of UNFC across European countries will be discussed. Particular attention shall be given to how UNFC can support consistent and comparable information on primary and secondary raw materials, facilitate monitoring and reporting, and contribute to informed decision-making on critical raw materials. Previous European implementation work has already addressed applications ranging from extraction and processing to recycling and substitution projects.

The session will also provide a forum for discussing practical issues encountered during implementation, including the interpretation and application of UNFC categories, alignment with existing national classification and reporting systems, data availability and quality, capacity building, and the development of appropriate guidance. Through examples, lessons learned and discussion among policymakers, geological surveys, resource experts, industry and international organisations, the session aims to identify best practices and highlights areas where further harmonisation, methodological development and international cooperation are required.

We would very much welcome the sharing of experiences and ideas on how the framework can support a common approach to the classification and management of resources across different legal systems.