The transition to a sustainable global economy necessitates an immediate re-evaluation of our raw material consumption (Lenzen et al., 2021; Mancini & Nuss, 2020).This endeavors involves finding an equilibrium between economic development, environmental preservation and the efficient use of resources (Basheer et al., 2022).The objective of this thesis is to
develop a Multi-criteria classification system for raw materials based on their scarcity, criticality, and environmental relevance, specifically within the European context. In parallel we will conduct a detailed analysis of the raw materials used in various products defined in the
product scope (all products which fall under the Ecodesign Directive, excluding "Tyres" and "Lighting." We will also investigate products with the ongoing preparatory study ''Tablets and Smartphones'' and ''Photovoltaic'' because of high content in critical and strategic raw materials. Additionally, we will analyzed other products that are still not regulated but relevant in terms of material content and examined in previous Working Plans since the adoption of the
first Ecodesign Directive (covering the periods 2009-2011, 2012-2014, 2016-2019 and 2022-2024) e.g."Taps and showers"). We will integrate the findings into a big table, which provides
a clear and complete overview of priority ‘couples’ material + product. This system is essential for enabling policymakers to make informed decisions concerning the allocation and
responsible utilization of raw materials for all the products regulated by Ecodesign Directive.
The reason for focusing on eco-design products is their crucial role in the EU's commitment to a greener economy and existing framework regulation, making it easy to adapt new potential
regulatory approaches regarding materials efficiency.:

• Information requirement (on material weight/weight range).

• Requirements on dismantlability (to recover more easily the material).

• Requirements setting a minimum share of recycled raw material.

Traditionally, evaluations of raw materials have emphasized the environmental downsides of their extraction and use. The thesis analyses the positive environmental impacts of certain raw
materials, especially those critical for renewable energy and other strategic sectors. This approach challenges conventional methodologies e.g. “OekoRess,” which focuses on the potential negative environmental impacts of mining. The thesis introduces a different way to assess raw materials' "environmental relevance" parameters within the "Multi-Criteria
Evaluation System of Raw Materials." It suggests that mining operations could increase their value by focusing on materials essential for renewable energy technologies. This perspective
not only redefines the environmental criticality of raw materials but also aligns with broader sustainability objectives by underscoring the essential role of certain materials in advancing renewable energy technologies and other sustainable practices.