The University of Oviedo and the ICAMCyL Foundation join forces in a strategic hub to tackle global challenges

The University of Oviedo, through the Raw Materials Research Institute (ASRAM), and the ICAMCYL Foundation have taken a decisive step towards the creation of a raw materials hub in the northwest of the Iberian Peninsula, an initiative aimed at strengthening Spain's industrial sovereignty and economic resilience in the current geopolitical context, marked by tensions between the US, China and Russia.

At a recent meeting, Ignacio Villaverde, Rector of the University of Oviedo, Santiago Cuesta-López, Director General of ICAMCYL, and Juan María Menéndez Aguado, Director of ASRAM, agreed to strengthen ties to promote participation in European innovation and sustainable mining projects, with a special focus on just transition. The aim is to collaborate with the main companies in the sector in Asturias, generating synergies that will strengthen the country's strategic autonomy in the supply of critical raw materials.

"The geopolitical situation forces us to act with a vision for the future. This hub will be a pillar for the reindustrialisation and independence of Spain in strategic sectors", said Santiago Cuesta-López, who added that "we will work with industry, academia and the administration to develop an innovative and sustainable ecosystem".

Juan María Menéndez Aguado, director of the research institute of the University of Oviedo ASRAM, highlighted the commitment to knowledge transfer and collaboration with the business community: "This alliance with ICAMCyL renews the commitment of our university to innovation and research in the field of raw materials and sustainable mining".

The agreement will materialise this spring, consolidating a cooperation network that will allow access to European funding, develop new technologies and ensure the responsible supply of essential resources for the economy.

ICAMCYL is not resting on its objective of joining forces in this hub, in which other academic institutions such as the University of León (ULE) and the University of Salamanca (USAL), with whom it has recently signed collaboration agreements, will also be present. This cooperation will strengthen research, technological development and training in the field of critical raw materials throughout northwest Spain.