EDUCATION ON MINERAL RAW MATERIALS THROUGH RISBRIEFCASE, AS A NON-CONVENTIONAL TEACHING TOOL

Abstract

Mineral raw materials are indispensable in our daily lives, e.g., food, cosmetics, clothing, medicine, mobile phones, vehicles, electrical appliances, construction materials, fertilizers, jewelry, etc. for our well-being and for a prosperous society. Securing a responsible supply from domestic sources is a key element in achieving reliable raw material security for Europe. Mineral raw materials are crucial for clean energy technologies – from wind turbines and solar panels, to electric vehicles and battery storage – require a wide range of minerals and metals and they are essential for reaching the Green Deal goals of a climate-neutral society by 2050.  In fact, the more ambitious climate targets are, the more minerals are needed for clean energy transition. Since the mineral consumption in general is intensifying, there is an urgent need to educate society, especially children, on these topics. Nowadays, in Albania, school curriculums lack of these topics, although recycling and circular economy are sporadically dealt. The RISBriefcase project, aims to enhance the perception of mining activities and fostering awareness about the vital role minerals and mining play in our society. Engaging its non-conventional teaching tools designed for students aged 6 to 14, it is applying the all-inclusive approach on this matter by teaching children about mineral properties and their uses, critical raw materials, circular economy approaches and use of secondary raw materials, sustainable mining, gender equality and a variety of career opportunities in mining sector.