Evaluation of Potentially Critical and Strategic Raw Materials in Azerbaijan

In recent years, many countries have announced their concerns regarding the supply risk for critical raw materials (CRMs). Identifying and evaluating these commodities is necessary due to their rising demand, driving technological advancement and decarbonisation initiatives. This work develops a conceptual framework for recognising potential CRMs in Azerbaijan based on various factors. The methodology incorporates a multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach to capture dynamic evaluations over static indications. A list of potential critical and strategic raw materials is conducted based on Azerbaijan's proven mineral resources. Then a number of economic, environmental, sociopolitical, geopolitical, and technological impact factors are determined. These criteria serve as the foundation for the criticality assessment process. The study aims to shed light on the essentiality of raw resources in Azerbaijan and conduct the country's first-ever critical raw materials list. The outcomes will support strategic decisions on these resources’ long-term maintenance and use.