Critical Minerals Glossary

Critical Raw Material (CRM)

A raw material designated as critical due to its economic importance and supply chain risk. The EU CRMA identifies 34 CRMs.

Strategic Raw Material (SRM)

A subset of CRMs that are particularly important for clean energy, digital, defence, and space technologies. The EU CRMA identifies 17 SRMs, subject to 2030 benchmarks.

FEOC (Foreign Entity of Concern)

Under the US IRA, entities owned by or subject to the jurisdiction of China, Russia, North Korea, or Iran. EV batteries containing FEOC-sourced minerals are ineligible for the Clean Vehicle Tax Credit.

CAHRAS

Conflict-Affected and High-Risk Areas. Areas identified by the OECD as having elevated risk of mineral supply chain abuses.

ASM

Artisanal and Small-Scale Mining. Informal mining operations, often associated with human rights risks in the DRC and other CAHRAs.

RMAP

Responsible Minerals Assurance Process. RMI audit program for mineral smelters and refiners, covering cobalt, tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold.

3TG

Tin, tantalum, tungsten, and gold. The four minerals covered by Dodd-Frank Section 1502 and the EU Conflict Minerals Regulation.