SCIMIN-CRM has gained international visibility at the 9th Global Aggregates Information Network (GAIN) Meeting, held in Huzhou, China, from 25 to 27 October 2026. The project was featured alongside other European research and innovation initiatives, highlighting Europe’s efforts to promote sustainability, resource efficiency, and innovation in the raw materials and aggregates sectors.
Hosted by the China Aggregates Association (CAA), the meeting brought together industry representatives and experts from around the world to exchange experiences, explore emerging technologies, and discuss the challenges facing the global aggregates industry. With a strong focus on technological innovation, artificial intelligence, and sustainability, the event provided a valuable platform for sharing European research and strengthening international cooperation.
During the session Latest Technology Innovations from Europe and other GAIN regions, held on 26 October, César Luaces Frades, representing the Spanish Aggregates Federation (FdA), was scheduled to deliver a presentation entitled How the EU DEQ, ROTATE, SCIMIN Projects are Reshaping the Industry. The presentation brought attention to three European initiatives — SCIMIN-CRM, ROTATE and DigiEcoQuarry — highlighting their role in supporting innovation and the transformation of the raw materials sector.
The programme also featured other presentations by César Luaces, including AI & Capabilities, Quarry of the Future and Employment & Skills. These sessions addressed some of the industry’s most pressing challenges and opportunities, from the growing role of artificial intelligence and digital technologies to the skills needed for the quarries of the future.
For SCIMIN-CRM, being highlighted at an international event such as GAIN represents an important opportunity to raise awareness of the project’s work and its contribution to addressing challenges related to critical raw materials, resource efficiency, and more sustainable mining practices. Bringing European research initiatives to a global audience helps encourage knowledge exchange and strengthen connections between research, innovation, and industry.
The SCIMIN-CRM team would like to thank the Spanish Aggregates Federation (FdA), ANEFA and Aggregates Europe for helping showcase European innovation on the international stage. Events like the GAIN Meeting highlight the value of collaboration and knowledge sharing in moving towards a more sustainable, innovative, and resilient raw materials sector.
