råmaterialen

Råmaterialen are basic natural resources used to manufacture goods. They are typically extracted from nature and include minerals, fossil fuels, biomass, and agricultural commodities. Raw materials serve as the initial inputs in production processes across sectors such as energy, construction, and consumer products.

They can be categorized in several ways. By origin: mineral, energy, agricultural/biomass, and forestry products. By renewability: renewable (timber, cotton, bio-based materials) versus non-renewable (iron ore, coal, oil, natural gas). They can be primary raw materials (unprocessed or minimally processed) or secondary/recycled materials (scrap metal, plastic waste). This classification helps in planning supply chains and sustainability strategies.

In the economy, raw materials form the backbone of manufacturing and infrastructure. They influence prices, trade balances, and industrial policy. Global supply chains connect distant resources with manufacturers, creating dependencies and exposure to geopolitics and climate-related risks.

After extraction and collection, raw materials are refined, processed, or transformed into intermediate goods or finished products. The quality, consistency, and certification of raw materials affect product performance, safety, and regulatory compliance.

Sustainability and management: extraction and use of raw materials have environmental and social impacts. Practices include responsible sourcing, recycling and circular economy approaches, and reducing waste. Policies and standards aim to minimize ecosystem damage and ensure ethical labor practices.