ABSTRACT
Europe set out its goals for decarbonization in the EU Green Deal. Achieving these targets will require more responsible use of, and a sharp increase in, the supply of critical raw materials. To meet its demand in raw materials, the EU is currently reliant on imports and is therefore vulnerable to changes in the geopolitical landscape and supply chain interruptions. Complex social, environmental, and technical challenges need to be understood to explore the potential domestic sourcing of metals and minerals in the EU.
The VECTOR project seeks to explore these challenges by bringing geosciences and social sciences together. VECTOR seeks to develop human-centred solutions for a socially acceptable, responsible, and sustainable supply of critical raw materials in Europe and thus contribute to achieving the Green Deal.
The VECTOR consortium recognise that due to the subject matter of the VECTOR project, there are sensitivities surrounding some of the research and development to be undertaken, and in line with our ambition to take a human centred approach to this project, we are keen to make every effort to allay concerns around the handling of these sensitivities and develop trust with all stakeholders.
One way that the VECTOR consortium hopes to build trust is through its commitment to its transparent and robust governance structure. VECTOR is the first EU Horizon project to appoint an independent Ethics Advisor, supported by an Independent Ethics Committee. The aim of this structure is to ensure that ethical matters arising during the course of the Project are considered by expert, neutral third parties who are not otherwise directly invested in the Project, and that their advice is given due weight in Project decision making processes and practically implemented by the Project working parties. We hope will set the bar for strong ethical project management across research consortiums.
To learn more about VECTOR visit: https://vectorproject.eu
BIOGRAPHY
Chris Stockey (Satarla): As an earth scientist bringing his experience in science communication to the project, Chris manages the external communications of VECTOR in the impact creation work package at Satarla.
Emily Lewis (Satarla): Emily has a background in law, ESG and impact, and is the work package lead for ethics coordination. Emily is also a project officer in the impact creation work package.
