Santiago, Chile – The European Union and Fraunhofer Chile have officially launched OPTIMINER, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at optimizing the extraction and processing of critical raw materials (CRMs) through advanced technologies and sustainable solutions. The project, co-financed with €7.3 million from the Horizon Europe program, brings together 20 partners from Greece, Spain, Germany, Finland, Poland, Austria, Belgium, and Chile, reinforcing EU-Chile cooperation in the mining sector.
“OPTIMINER marks a milestone in scientific cooperation between the EU and Chile. This Horizon Europe-funded project demonstrates how international collaboration can drive sustainable innovation in key industries like mining,” said Jozef Síkela, European Commissioner for International Partnerships.
A Collaborative Effort for Sustainable Mining
In Chile, Fraunhofer Chile will lead research and validation efforts, while the Chilean-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (AHK) will facilitate private sector involvement.
“With this project, we leverage our expertise in applied research and advanced technologies to strengthen Chile’s role as a global supplier of critical minerals while enhancing scientific and technological collaboration with the EU,” said Frank Dinter, Executive Director of Fraunhofer Chile.
Innovating for Efficiency and Sustainability
OPTIMINER focuses on improving energy and water efficiency in mining operations, as well as optimizing waste management and recovery. Various mining environments will test these solutions, including a pilot project at Hasparren Mine in Chile.
The official launch event in Santiago featured EU Commissioner Jozef Síkela, EU Ambassador to Chile Claudia Gintersdorfer, Fraunhofer Chile’s Frank Dinter, and representatives from EU Member States in Chile, highlighting the high level of commitment to sustainability and the green energy transition.