Role of Circular Economy in Increasing Raw Material Supply by Modern Mining Industry in Lower Silesia, Poland

The aim of this paper is to analyze the potential of circular economy in the context of increasing the supply of raw materials for modern economy with particular focus on the role of science and business. The article presents an approach consistent with the concept of sustainable development and fitting in with the implementation of four Sustainable Development Goals: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure (SDG 9), Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 2), Climate Action (SDG 13), and Life on Land (SDG 15). An innovative approach to raw material supply sources is also presented. In addition, the potential of urban mining e-waste in meeting the demand for critical metals is emphasized. The paper presents barriers and challenges for using the potential of raw materials deposited in spoil heaps and landfills or in tailings ponds, with emphasis on the role of modern technologies in increasing the competitiveness of Polish industry. The necessity of a systemic approach to the topic of the circular economy was also emphasized, particularly regarding secondary raw materials as essential for securing critical resources.