Råstof

Råstof is a term used in Danish, Norwegian and Swedish to describe natural resources that are used as inputs in the production of goods and services. A råstof is typically extracted or harvested from the environment and then processed, refined or transformed into finished products or intermediate materials. Råstoffer can be broadly categorized into mineral resources (such as ores and metals), energy resources (such as coal, oil, gas and other fuels), and biological or agricultural raw materials (such as timber, pulpwood, crops and fibers).

Some are finite, non-renewable resources with long geological formation times, others are renewable if managed sustainably (forestry, certain agricultural feedstocks).

The global supply of råstoffs is shaped by geology, technology, market demand, and geopolitical factors. Extraction involves mining, drilling, logging, farming; processing includes quarrying, refining, milling; industries rely on raw materials for manufacturing, construction, energy, and consumer goods. Supply security and price volatility are common concerns.

Sustainability considerations influence råstoff policy and practice. Policy frameworks encourage responsible sourcing, recycling, substitution, and the development of a circular economy to reduce environmental impact. Issues include extraction-related ecosystem disruption, emissions, and social impacts. Countries and industries also maintain stockpiles and diversify supplies to mitigate supply risks while pursuing technological advances that improve efficiency and enable use of alternative or recycled materials.