With the #ConnectingMinds-project CIRCEUS, scientists and practice partners want to create a sound transdisciplinary knowledge base on which solutions for climate-friendly and fair resource use can be developed. This knowledge base will support the dialogue between the EU and exporters of raw materials in the Global South.

How does the EU’s policy for a de-carbonised, circular EU economy affect its need for critical raw materials such as lithium or copper? Which societal consequences does it have for countries in the Global South which export many of these raw materials? How can this transformation be designed in such a way that these countries get fair opportunities to freely shape their own development?

The CIRCEUS team identifies impacts of the EU's strategies for critical raw materials on the Global South by way of a process involving regular exchange with civil society organisations in the Global South and EU-institutions.

The Austrian Foundation for Development Research (ÖFSE), the Vienna University of Economics and Business, BOKU University and the Institute of Technology Assessment (ITA) at the Austrian Academy of Sciences join the internationally well-connected NGOs DKA Austria and Global 2000 to combine scientific expertise with practical experience for CIRCEUS.  Together, they create a transdisciplinary research process which combines research, practical relevance and the perspective of affected regions. In that way, CIRCEUS aims to contribute to a transformation of the EU which does not disadvantage other regions but creates new opportunities worldwide.

ÖFSE coordinates the project. ITA is responsible for the development of a transdisciplinary framework, capacity development and dissemination of results to stakeholders in civil society and politics.