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In response to these vulnerabilities, the European Union has enacted the European Critical Raw Materials Act aimed at diversifying supply chains, increasing recycling initiatives, and exploring substitutes for these essential metals. The Act identifies 34 critical raw materials, with 17 designated as strategic, underscoring their paramount significance for defense and aerospace.
Highlighting the gravity of the situation, a recent report indicates that Turkey has emerged as a significant player for certain materials, supplying 98% of the EU's boron, while South Africa is responsible for 71% of the continent's plutonium demand.