European Minerals Day
http://www.mineralsday.eu/
Next event: 12-14 May 2011
This initiative by the European minerals sector and related organisations gives the opportunity to the European-wide public to explore the world of minerals and discover more about an industry that affects every aspect of our lives.
This biannual event welcomed more than 30,000 visitors in over 100 sites in 17 European countries during its first edition in 2007. The European Minerals Day 2009 engaged children and adults at more than 160 sites in 27 countries.
Minerals play an essential role in our lives with 70% of EU manufacturing production depending on mined substances. The construction, chemicals, automotive, aerospace and machinery sectors, which provide a total added value of € 1324 billion and 30 million jobs all depend on access to raw materials.
In 2009, special attention was given to biodiversity. Quarries may host a variety of rare plant and animal species, and many companies were therefore proud to guide visitors along through rehabilitated areas. This and many more activities were aimed at raising awareness of this old, yet innovative and sustainable sector. Entertaining side activities such as fossil hunting, animations for children, jeep safaris, workshops etc. make European Minerals Day an unforgettable experience for people of all ages.
