Lithium is the essential element for the batteries of our hashtag electric vehicles and for our energy storage. Europe has enough hashtag#lithium in its bedrock to become self-sufficient. But today there is no operational mine yet, and the EU is depending on imports from China. A new responsible way of mining is necessary, one that recognises the importance of local and cultural preservation. Can the European Union lead the way?

On May 27, 2025, the documentary Europe’s Lithium Paradox from Peter Tom Jones (Director KU Leuven Institute for Sustainable Metals and Minerals) premiered before an audience of over 120 key stakeholders from the Flemish critical raw materials ecosystem. The 56-minute film explores lithium’s strategic importance in Europe’s ambition to become the first climate-neutral continent.

The screening was followed by a fireside chat with the presenter and a dynamic panel discussion moderated by Francesca Vanthielen (Kanaal Z). Panelists included Geert Olbrechts (Umicore), Kira Van den Ende (Bond Beter Leefmilieu), Kris Broos (VITO), and Yanaika Denoyelle (Ortelius/Econopolis), who discussed how Europe can tackle its lithium paradox—and how Flanders can lead the way.

Watch trailer (Journeyman Pictures): www.journeyman.tv/film/8842/europes-lithium-paradox