UNFC Train-the-Trainer Programme A Roadmap EU International Centre of Excellence on Sustainable Resource Management UNFC Train-the-Trainer Programme, A Roadmap Authors (in alphabetical order): Meta Dobnikar, Zbyněk Gabriel, Janne Hokka, Zoltán Horváth, Magnus Johansson, Janja Knežević Solberg, Tuomas Leskelä, Lena Lundqvist, Snježana Miletić, Daniel Monfort Climent, Sebastian Pfleiderer, Duška Rokavec, Mark Uwe Simoni and Antje Wittenberg. Editors: Meta Dobnikar, Snježana Miletić Reviewers: Hendrik Falck, Anette Carola Erika Ingvald Type of publication: e-publication Place, published by: Ljubljana, Geological Survey of Slovenia Year of publishing: 2025 Funded by: The European Union’s Horizon Europe Programme, project 101075609 — GSEU — HORIZON-CL5-2021-D3-02, grant agreement number 101075609, and the Slovenian Research and Innovation Agency, research core funding No. P1 -0025, carried out by the Geological Survey of Slovenia. This publication is free of charge. DOI: 10.5474/978-961-6498-85-2 Copyright: This document may not be copied, reproduced, or modified in whole or in part for any purpose without written permission from the GSEU Consortium. In addition, an acknowledgement of the authors of the document and all applicable portions of the copyright notice must be clearly referenced. All rights reserved. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License. Acknowledgement: These guidelines for organisation of UNFC trainings were developed within the Horizon Europe Coordination and Support Action entitled Geological Service for Europe (GSEU), Work package 2: Raw Materials, under the organisation of ICE-SRM EU. The training materials are available at the GSEU website: https://www.geologicalservice.eu/areas-of-expertise/raw-materials/european- international-centre-of-excellence-on-sustainable-resource-management and through ICE-SRM EU IT Platform. For more information on ICE-SRM EU and the UNFC trainings please contact: euicesrm@geologicalservice.eu. Kataložni zapis o publikaciji (CIP) pripravili v Narodni in univerzitetni knjižnici v Ljubljani COBISS.SI-ID 256865283 ISBN 978-961-6498-85-2 (PDF) Disclaimer As a disclaimer to this document and the associated training materials, it is emphasized that any information provided herein is to be understood as guidance and is meant for training purposes only. Readers and participants are advised to consult the official documents on the use of the United Nations Framework Classification for Resources (UNFC). For updates the UNFC homepage (https://unece.org/sustainable-energy/sustainable-resource-management/unfc-documents) should be consulted. All existing legal frameworks in the European Union remain binding and are not affected. Any information provided as part of the training are recommendations and suggestions. The user cases provided are for training purposes only and are either based on publicly available information or are fictitious to illustrate certain facts. The figures and findings presented in the training materials will not replace own assumptions or override any official products. All information has been compiled to the best of knowledge and belief at the time of writing but may not be error-free. The document has been prepared by the experts of the EU International Centre of Excellence on Sustainable Resource Management (in alphabetical order): Meta Dobnikar, Zbyněk Gabriel, Janne Hokka, Zoltán Horváth, Magnus Johansson, Janja Knežević Solberg, Tuomas Leskelä, Lena Lundqvist, Snježana Miletić, Daniel Monfort Climent, Sebastian Pfleiderer, Duška Rokavec, Mark Uwe Simoni and Antje Wittenberg. The document has been reviewed by Hendrik Falck (chair of the Minerals Working Group of the Expert Group on Resource Management (EGRM)), and Anette Carola Erika Ingvald (United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE)). The sole responsibility for the content of this publication lies with the authors. It does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the European Commission. The European Commission is not responsible for any use that may be made of the information contained therein. Contents 1. Introduction ............................................................................................. 4 2. Main aim and focus of trainings ............................................................ 6 2.1. Target groups ........................................................................................................... 7 2.2. Qualification .............................................................................................................. 7 2.2.1. Trainers ................................................................................................................. 7 2.2.2. Trainees ................................................................................................................ 8 2.2.3. Certificates ............................................................................................................ 8 2.3. Limitations ................................................................................................................ 8 3. Structure of the training programme and the training materials ........ 9 3.1. The three-level approach .......................................................................................... 9 3.2. Training sections design ..........................................................................................11 3.3. Scheme of the Train-the-Trainer programme ...........................................................12 4. Preparation of trainings ........................................................................ 13 4.1. Training Level 1 .......................................................................................................13 4.2. Training Level 2 .......................................................................................................17 4.3. Training Level 3 .......................................................................................................19 5. Conclusion ............................................................................................. 22 6. References ............................................................................................. 23 1. Introduction The European Regulation establishing a framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials (Critical Raw Materials Act - CRMA) [1], which entered into force on 23 May 2024, obliges the EU Member States (EU MS) to report on critical minerals. Reporting to the European Commission should be carried out when appropriate, in accordance with the UNFC (United Nations Framework Classification for Resources) classification (Figure 1) in the second year after the adoption of CRMA. Figure 1: UNFC Categories and Example of Classes (Source [2]) The CRMA stipulates mandatory use of the UNFC for the classification of raw materials projects and national resource estimates. To implement this, a common understanding and sufficient capacity must be established among government agencies and public authorities as well as for private companies. To support this requirement, UNFC training was designed within the EU International Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Resource Management (ICE-SRM EU) [3], and the first Train-the-Trainer capacity building programme sessions were implemented. The ICE-SRM EU is a EuroGeoSurveys (EGS) initiative, led by the Geological Survey of Slovenia (GeoZS), within the Geological Service for Europe (GSEU) [4] project. This document presents a roadmap for organisation of UNFC trainings with guidelines for each step along the road to enable the efficient implementation of the UNFC at EU level. It specifical provides information for CRMA reporting to support the implementation of UNFC. The ICE-SRM EU trainings focused on mineral resources, but the approach design and fundamental UNFC documents used, together with appropriate case studies can be used as a solid basis for other CRMA UNFC reporting trainings. 2. Main aim and focus of trainings A structured program of systematic capacity building ensures that synergies are retained across the EU Member States (MS). It enables MS to ensure that the data on raw materials collected are consistent and of the quality required throughout the EU. This can also be extended to related neighbouring countries as well as likeminded countries. The use of a structured program allows for meaningful comparisons regardless the source of data or the type of raw material. The development of UNFC capacity within the ICE-SRM EU serves to ensure the correct handling and understanding of mineral resource information in particular to: (1) the collection, standardization, and representation of mineral resource information using international instruments such as the Infrastructure for Spatial Information in the EU (INSPIRE) [5][6]; (2) the process of estimation, classification and management of resources with the compilation of harmonised assessments. The main aim of the UNFC training programme is to help the implementation of UNFC, support the CRMA and EU MS. The goal of the training is to provide relevant stakeholders involved in raw materials (raw materials experts, agencies, and authorities) with knowledge on the function and implementation of the UNFC in accordance with CRMA, with a focus on reporting on national exploration programs. Capacity building training, referred to as the Train-the-Trainer programme, is to provide the relevant institutions an opportunity to train experts who will be able to further share their knowledge on UNFC. The ICE-SRM EU used a step-by-step approach to increase the needed capacity in all related areas. The focus of the GSEU ICE-SRM EU UNFC trainings is on mineral resources and especially critical raw materials. As experts, it is important to keep in mind the list of critical raw materials which is periodically updated, and the need to manage all of them. Following main UNFC documents are central for trainings: • UNFC update 2019 [2], • Supplementary Specifications for the Application of the UNFC for Minerals [7] • UNFC Guidance Europe [8] • CRIRSCO-UNFC bridging document [9]. 2.1. Target groups Trainings are designed in a three-level approach. They develop the level of expertise through three levels, to the highest level for the UNFC experts that will conduct trainings on UNFC (section 3.2). In this document the term UNFC expert refers to persons whose working portfolio confirms their skills and expertise in the use and implementation of UNFC. At national level, UNFC Experts should also be able to report on national exploration programmes, on Strategic Projects and on strategic national stocks as per the CRMA arts. 7(1b), 8(4), 19(6), 21(1) and 27(8) in particular. For experts working with different national reporting systems, particular attention to should be paid to the principles of mapping to UNFC, and a thorough understanding of good practice examples. Experts may need to examine different stages of national reporting but for different purposes. The outcomes may differ whether from the perspective of a company, a consultant, a government agency or a public authority and ensuring that the results are fit for purpose will be important. For the trainings, target groups include raw material experts in particular: • Staff of national and regional Geological Survey Organisations (GSO) and related governmental agencies. • Staff of national, regional and local authorities (i.e. ministries, mining authorities, state mining offices) working on issues as: ▪ resource estimations ▪ raw material inventories ▪ permitting ▪ forecasts ▪ monitoring • Other mineral resources experts. 2.2. Qualification The ICE-SRM EU will set up a Certification board to administer and govern certification for both for Trainers and Trainees. 2.2.1. Trainers Trainers need to develop a portfolio expressing their expertise and practice in the application of UNFC proven by their references. Educational competences and skills are highly recommended. 2.2.2. Trainees The success of the training will need to be validated to determine the trainees’ gained knowledge and collect their feedback about the satisfaction/expectations of the training. It is important to include trainees actively at each training level, starting with a poll (e.g. Slido) and/or quiz questions, to the preparation and presentation of their assignments (group work and homework). This is also a way to monitor their understanding of the subject and knowledge gained by attending an UNFC training course. Trainees feedback on training can be provided with a short and simple on-line questionnaire (evaluation form), sent within a week after the workshop. Structured feedback questionnaires on the training materials, the performance and structure of the modular program should be designed to improve the program over time. 2.2.3. Certificates After each training level, attendees receive a certificate of attendance from the training organiser. Certificates will clearly state the name, surname and organisation of attendee as well as which training level they have attended. A format will contain the ICE-SRM EU logo as well as the organiser, GSEU and the EGS logos. The certificate must be signed by the persons responsible for the training. Additional examinations are required to obtain the designation “Qualified Expert”. These will be developed by the certification board in consultation with the UNECE, with regard to the content, form, and duration of the examination depending on the level of training. The acquired knowledge will be tested according to clearly defined criteria and specifications. The results will be assessed independently by at least two trainers and/or certification board members. A certification template and guidance on content of examination tests for course participants will be provided by the ICE-SRM EU. Certificates of UNFC Trainer status will be issued by the ICE-SRM EU after examination by the ICE-SRM EU Certification board. 2.3. Limitations The concepts provided focus on the geological knowledge in as well as the use of public information to classify and report mineral resource quantities according to the UNFC. 3. Structure of the training programme and the training materials ICE-SRM EU is establishing an educational centre (“training house”) to secure long-term capacity for UNFC and peer proved expertise (Qualified Expert). The centre allows for a long-term planning and execution of structured training modules with different resources. It will promote UNFC, publish training material and issue certifications, as well as providing support to EU MS by maintaining the trainings materials and organizing the UNFC trainings. All additional training materials should be coordinated by the training house to ensure quality control and consistent training material. 3.1. The three-level approach The structure of the Train-the-Trainer program is structured using a three-level approach: • Level 1 - Basic level: the first level training is intended for different stakeholders in the field of mineral resources, regardless of their level of knowledge on UNFC, giving the basics of the UNFC classification. • Level 2 - User level: the second level training built on the first level and is structured for the participants who will in practice use and implement the UNFC classification. • Level 3 - Expert Level: The third level training is an upgraded second level intended to train new UNFC experts who are then able to deliver UNFC trainings at the national level. The workshops will include pre-workshop handouts and practical assignments (exercises and case studies). The training must be supported by a professional learning platform, which allows an interactive learning experience (e.g., course materials, pre-course exercises, case studies, polls, and Q&A). The international training language is English. Country specific modules using the national language can be useful and may be set-up in the medium-term when appropriate (i.e., national-level expert training program). The workshops will need to be run by ICE-SRM trainers – the UNFC experts. Each workshop should have one communication person who assists with the Q&A and polls etc. The objectives and outcomes of the Train-the-Trainer programme are shown in the Table 1. The general content of the three-level approach training is shown in the Figure 2. Table 1: The objectives and outcomes of the Train-the-Trainer capacity building program on UNFC Level Objective Outcomes • An introduction to UNFC and a common • Theoretical background on mineral resource understanding and grounding of how to estimates and related uncertainties. classify projects in accordance with UNFC in • How mining projects are developed and what Europe. aspects need to be considered when dealing • Case-study examples and practical exercises with the commercial use of raw materials. (homework, group assignments) from • UNFC for mineral resources basics related different European countries and UNFC- documents specifications and guidelines. 1 related projects (e.g., Mintell4EU). The • UNFC for national mineral inventories: How course is tailored based on the training region to classify and map national projects under (fit for purpose). UNFC. • Problematic cases and challenges with • What specific information is needed from a solutions. • Guest lecturers (2 x 1.5h) if applicable on governmental expert when considering E, F, and G aspects of a particular project? topics e.g., Resource management, ESG, etc. • Recap lectures of UNFC essentials (Q&A). • Establishing solid knowledge and trainings • The UNFC Template. skills. • Pre-course assignments and country-specific • Trainees will plan and present a country-level 2 case studies (group assignments) from training plan. different European countries. • Country-specific requirements and training program outline. • Recap lectures of UNFC essentials (Q&A). • Updates and amplified detailed knowledge. 3 • Pre-course assignments and country-specific • To ensure consistency in national level trainings materials are discussed and trainings within EU Member States. presented. Figure 2: A learning plan for the three-level approach of the Train-the-Trainer capacity-building program. The maximum number of in-person participants per workshop/training level depends on the number and the level of detail anticipated by the course components. It is estimated the limit should be approx. 6 to 8 trainees per trainer. It is important to define a reporting system, as the trainees work in order to adapt the course content accordingly. While most training modules are of common interest to all target groups the level of detail and the priority focus will depend on the working environment and perspective of the trainee. 3.2. Training sections design In the first phase of planning the training, it is important to develop training sections, that contain the main subjects to be addressed. Seven main sections are recommended: • Introduction - introductory to the training concept and all relevant topics • Historic estimates (includes estimates for projects that are not active, e.g. abandoned projects, closed mines; active projects where there has been an ownership change, and the new owner has not confirmed the previous resource; in some CRIRSCO-aligned systems, these are considered ’historical estimates’ or ’foreign estimates’ which do not represent mineral resources; “old” estimates with variable amounts of information that are not compliant with the current classification systems and bridging documents cannot be directly used) – to establish a transparent, consistent, and coherent way to map historic estimates into UNFC. • How to deal with data gaps - to establish a transparent, consistent, and coherent way to deal with data gaps with respect to UNFC mapping. • CRIRSCO-UNFC Bridging - the content of the updated CRIRSCO-UNFC Bridging Document [9].and additional Guidance Note [10].and how it should be used in the context of national mineral inventories. • Other national systems conversion to UNFC - to give participants an overview of other national reporting systems used in Europe. If relevant, to enable participants to translate reporting in their national systems to UNFC. The trainings on UNFC can be conducted at the national level. Enable participants to use UNFC Guidance Europe [8] with consideration of national system elements to UNFC. • UNFC data outputs in accordance with CRMA – to enable participants to define and submit relevant UNFC data to a centralised EU database, as stipulated in the CRMA [1]. • Case studies – work on national case studies support to the training modules. Periodical internal evaluation surveys should be conducted. Based on attendee feedback improvements should made to the trainings content and material. The sections should be modified according to the additional needs of trainees identified during the implementation of the workshops. The material could be expanded to include further explanations of specific features and practical work. 3.3. Scheme of the Train-the-Trainer programme The training programme contains lectures and exercises with assignments appropriate for the different levels. Exercises are implemented as group work during workshops at training level 2 and training level 3, and homework is assigned to participants between all three levels (Figure 3). A preparational workshop for trainers at the start of the trainings, where training materials and curriculum should be reviewed and confirmed is essential. This is especially important if several trainers are involved in the same workshop. Following these arrangements, training workshops of all three levels can occur. It is recommended to hold workshops of each level at regular intervals, i. e. one each month. Figure 3: Scheme of the Train-the-Trainer programme. Each training level (T-level) represents a UNFC training course containing different section (CS = case study, Q&A = questions and answers). 4. Preparation of trainings 4.1. Training Level 1 The level 1 training consists of thematic sections that discuss the basics of UNFC classification and how it can be applied from project inventories to harmonizing tools for national reporting. The workshop may be structured as a two-days event allowing in-person and on-line attendance. The main topics at the course focus on general principles, suitable for all interested participants with a variety of knowledge about UNFC. The aim is to ensure a common base knowledge about UNFC and to provide an overview on database requirements, reporting standards, and requirements according to the CRMA. Scene setter • Purpose and limitations of the training courses • Concept, structure, target group and timeframe • Motivation for the UNFC Train-the-Trainer Programme In the introductory session, which sets out the framework of the training programme, it is important to explain the purpose and the concept of training. This includes a disclaimer on the accuracy of data and use of the training materials, and to provide contextual information on funding and certification. The training programme is motivated by the mandatory use of UNFC in the CRMA, in particular Art. 7, 8, 19, 21, 27 [1]. UNFC, INSPIRE, and CRMA • UNFC general framework, specifications, and associated guidance documents • General legal framework, requirements, and expectations of the European Union (INSPIRE, CRMA) • Theory of Resource Estimation, Classification and Management In this part, the aims of UNFC and the CRMA principles should be presented. The contents should including a current list of CRM and strategic raw materials, a definition of strategic projects according to the CRMA, an outline of the permit granting process for strategic projects, requirements for EU MS reporting and the overview of the UNFC database. From this presentation participants would have a basic understanding of the UNFC, CRMA and the connection between the two, current critical and strategic raw materials for the EU, the difference between critical and strategic, CRMA strategic projects, how to report information in a database and the connection between CRIRSCO reporting and UNFC classification. Basic information and Official documents • UNFC developments through time • Review the UNFC concept • Overview of interlinkages of concepts of reporting schemes • Datasets principles • Introduction of the basic UNFC documents After the listed topics participants should learn that: • UNFC is a tool to communicate the availability of resources and the maturity level of Projects by applying generic principles and harmonized terminology for classification. • Several documents are conducted to support users, to ensure harmonized terminology and to provide guidance for bridging existing mineral data inventories to UNFC. • When applying UNFC the legal framework utilised by the foundational documents shall be respected. • UNFC is a resource classification system while resource estimation is carried out by a Competent Person. • UNFC has its limits. By way of example, it is currently not a legally mandated standard for financial reporting or for minerals inventory reporting within the majority of countries. Basics on UNFC • UNFC principles and Category descriptions • UNFC applied in the Minerals Sector UNFC document hierarchy should be presented, as well as primary classes, categories and subcategories of UNFC-2019 update [2]. Application of UNFC in Mineral sector will be explained from the Supplementary Specifications for the Application of the UNFC for Minerals [7]. Furthermore, UNFC in mining related projects, scale of investigation and project progression example should be explained. CRIRSCO/UNFC Bridging • Theory • CRIRSCO-to-UNFC for active projects • Quick exercise/example: CRIRSCO-to-UNFC • Underpinning plenary case exercise CRISRCO-UNFC Bridging document [9] is presented, including comparison of the CRIRSCO template [11] and UNFC, CRIRSCO classification, mapping of the CRIRSCO Template [11] to the UNFC, Competency and Qualification requirements [12], general relationship between the CRIRSCO and UNFC and other parts of the document. Also, the Guidance Note on the use of the Bridging Document between the CRIRSCO Template and UNFC [10] is presented, as well as CRIRSCO Beyond Inferred Position Paper 2025 [13]. Key points and take away messages of the presentation are: • The CRIRSCO-UNFC Bridging Document is used when Exploration Targets, Mineral Resources or Mineral Reserves have been reported in accordance with CRIRSCO-aligned reporting standards and codes. • When mapping estimates from the CRIRSCO Template to UNFC, the results specified by the Competent Expert in the CRIRSCO report must be consistently adhered to. • Only the estimates for Mineral Resources reported exclusive of Mineral Reserves should be used to avoid double counting of the estimated volumes. • Technical studies (Scoping, Pre-Feasibility, and Feasibility) should be referred to in the context of mineral projects where environmental, socio-economic viability and/or technical feasibility has yet to be confirmed — typically corresponding to UNFC classifications E2; F2. UNFC Guidance Europe • UNFC Guidance Europe [8] • Linkage between CRIRSCO-UNFC Bridging document [9] and INSPIRE [5] The presentation of this UNFC document should include the information flow and responsibilities, explanation of the table 10 (UNFC Classes Defined by Categories and Sub-categories and INSPIRE Code List), Standard mapping of CRIRSCO Template aligned estimates to UNFC categories, Annex II: Supplemental Guidance for the National Resource Reporting, Annex III: Sectoral Guidelines for Europe. Key points and take away messages of the presentation are: • UNFC is a resource management tool that can classify projects and products in a coherent and consistent manner to assist in shaping a sustainable supply of critical and strategic raw materials within Europe. • UNFC Guidance Europe aims to ensure clarity and comparability in national resource reporting and to assist Qualified Experts in identifying relevant technical and non-technical contingencies and blocking factors, and to determine how these can be communicated under UNFC to facilitate reporting of Critical Raw Materials Projects within the European Union. • UNFC Guidance for Europe is mainly used in national level by the governmental organisations to support INSPIRE compliant reporting of raw materials project within EU. Estimation and uncertainty In this part mineral resource estimations and estimations uncertainties are presented, including the explanation of reserves and resources, terminology used, about public reports, CRIRSCO international standards, CRIRSCO Template 2024 [11], ESG considerations and mineral resource audits. Key points and take away messages of this presentation are: • Resource estimation is a complex process including numerous steps and decisions, inherently encompassing uncertainties arising from complex geology and sparse sampling. Therefore, estimation should not be interpreted as a precise calculation! • CRIRSCO-aligned standards and codes set the minimum standards for public reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves. They are standards for reporting, not for estimating resources! Historical data and data gaps principles Presentation on historical data should include challenges of using historical data sets. Explain the main principles of dealing with historic estimates, UNFC classes used with historic estimates and underpin plenary case exercise showing for example a historic estimate classified as a prospective project. Data gap principles should explain most common data gaps exemplified by the plenary case exercises. The participants learn about: • Data gaps in the context of UNFC • Availability of information to allow for UNFC mapping • How to map cases where resources include reserves into UNFC • How to map cases where only a total resource is reported into UNFC. Other national reporting systems to UNFC An overview of other national reporting systems should be presented, with a brief description of their resource classification, legislative framework and harmonization with UNFC. If specific national reporting systems are relevant to the participants, appropriate case studies may be presented. The goal of the section is the information on different national reporting systems and the ability to bridge them to UNFC to acquire comparable data. ASSIGNMENT before the Training Level 2: Preparation of country specific Case studies As preparation for Level 2, participants are asked to prepare 3 case studies (per country - ideally using a template with the instructions), to be discussed at the workshop. Ideally this would involve the classification of a) an active project, b) one closed mine and c) an exploration project, prepared on a common template for comparison. The information serves as background information for the UNFC codification in the training. When selecting case studies, participants should provide a brief and concise description and consider different kinds of projects, from typical ones to more problematic ones. It is important to ensure that the most relevant information is included, which allows someone not familiar to the project to make UNFC classification. For example: a) Project background including commodities and products, location, project status, current holder/ownership, geology and project history; b) a short description of Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves; c) Production, including historic and current production; d) Recognized challenges, listing all the items that currently prevent the project from moving forward towards production; e) UNFC classification. 4.2. Training Level 2 The workshop should consist of different thematic sections, which are designed to deepen the trainer’s knowledge related to UNFC and country-specific requirements and contingencies. The workshop should also provide the trainers possibilities to find synergies between similar Member States/Participant’s countries and accelerate implementation. Pre-course assignments include identification of country-specific case studies and major data gaps related to E-, F- and G-axes. The course aims to provide a solid knowledge on UNFC implementation for national experts. The workshop should be held as a two-days in-person event which enables group work and interaction with trainers. Recap of Level 1 It is recommended at the beginning of the Level 2 training that the content of the Level 1 training is briefly summarized with the key take away messages. In the recap, the updates of the relevant EU initiatives (such as CRMA) should be provided. A short interactive quiz on the basics from the Level 1 training is a good ice-breaking exercise. Historic estimates (2) After learning the basics about historic estimates at the Level1 training, in the Level 2 should deepen the knowledge on UNFC mapping for cases of: • Historic estimate with extensive background knowledge • Mine closure • Ownership change • Commodities dropped from company estimates. Furthermore, monitoring aspects regarding historic projects should be presented. CRIRSCO-UNFC Bridging Case study After the basics on CRIRSCO bridging, introduced at Training Level 1, different case study examples (with all the relevant information for UNFC classification) should be worked on. Bridging methodology In this part the general principles of bridging are presented, supported by the different practices of bridging of relevant national classification systems. The goal is for trainees to understand how other national classification systems can be mapped to UNFC in principle, how similarities and differences between the class definitions of other systems and UNFC can be identified, and how best fits between equivalent classes can be found. 2D plots, omitting for example the G axis, should be introduced to facilitate this exercise. As examples of recently developed bridging methodologies, the mapping from the Czech National System or the ABC1 System to UNFC can be presented. Since the Austrian National System is based on three criteria similar to the three UNFC axes, the corresponding bridging document can also serve as a good example (see chapter ‘Mapping the Austrian Standard G 1050 to UNFC’ in [14]). Case studies – group work Case study session should request active participation of trainees and work in groups of up to 5 participants, on their pre-prepared case studies. The aim is to deepen trainees' understanding of the UNFC through hands-on application. This involves identifying the main factors that influence classifications, as well as understanding how project-specific challenges, such as land use, cultural heritage considerations, data permitting issues and the degree of geological knowledge, have impact on the classification outcomes. The group work emphasizes the importance of integrating diverse data sources, including company reports, governmental permits, and third-party information such as media, to ensure correct classification. To improve understanding, case studies should be prepared on a common template (Figure 4). The case studies should cover topics such as data sources, data gaps, uncertainties and challenges. These examples include the project overview and information relevant to the E, F, and G categories for projects with different levels of maturity, classes, and subclasses: Viable Project - Justified for Development, On Production, and Prospective Project. Based on the facts and evidence relevant to UNFC, trainees classify the project themselves in small groups and report their classification proposals via e.g. Slido. This is followed by a discussion and clarification of the proposals, addressing their pros and cons. Figure 4: Template for UNFC classification during group work on case studies. The session will highlight the importance of relying on diverse data sources. By combining theoretical concepts with practical exercises, the case studies may help trainees better understand how to classify projects and address uncertainties or gaps in the available data. ASSIGNMENT before the Training Level 3: Preparation of national UNFC implementation An Assignment should be given to all participants to prepare them for the level 3 exercises on (a) the course design of national UNFC trainings (see point 3 of the training section of level 3 “How to teach” in chapter 4.3) and (b) the development of a roadmap for national UNFC implementation (see point 4 of the training section “How to teach”). Participants should be asked to prepare a few slides about who they will train, what pre-existing knowledge they expect their trainees to have, and finally what and how they will teach. These questions should be identical to the topics chosen for the “World Café” exercise (see point 3 of the training section “How to teach”). The participants, who have completed their homework before the training, will be well prepared, while those who have not should be given a chance to catch up during the training. The slides could be used subsequently as a starting point for the presentations during the plenary session (see point 5 of the training section” How to teach”). 4.3. Training Level 3 The workshop should consist of different thematic sections, which are designed to deepen the trainer’s knowledge related to UNFC and country-specific requirements and contingencies. The aim of the workshop is to prepare the trainers to conduct the trainings at national level. The pre-course assignments include preparation of course material in according to the country-level training plan. This workshop will amplify the detailed UNFC knowledge and ensure consistency in the trainings at national level. The workshop should be held as a two-days in-person event which enables intense individual as well as group work with interaction with the assigned trainers. Recap of Level 2 It is recommended to summarize the content of the Level 2 training and the key take-away messages briefly at the beginning of the Level 3 training. In the recap part, the relevant parts of the CRMA [1] obligating the use of UNFC may be highlighted: Exploration, Strategic projects, Risk monitoring and Circularity. The main UNFC documents should be listed and the key facts and lessons learned in bridging the other classification/reporting systems to UNFC. Insights of the specific case studies from the Level 2 training In this part the specific and most interesting or complex case studies from the Level 2 should be assessed, pointing out the main discussion topics and conclusions brought up. Work in small groups on UNFC classification of the case studies provided for Level 2 Participants should work in small groups on the more complex case studies, that were provided at the Level 2 training. The groups should work independently, having at least one trainer at their disposal in case of questions, uncertainties or for clarifications. Risks and efforts This exercise shows the relation between the risks in resource and reserve estimation and the efforts [15]. The Risk versus effort diagram [16] clearly showing the situation of decreasing risk/uncertainty and increasing time/resources/money/complexity should be presented. The exercise will help trainees to learn proper resource estimation methods and why they are used. How to teach and work on the implementation roadmaps The session on how to teach at the national level should discuss teaching principles and methods, then implement one (or more) of the teaching methods for demonstration and practicing purposes. Finally, trainees (i.e. future trainers) can be given the task to develop a roadmap for UNFC implementation in their own country and discuss and compare their results in a panel discussion. Thus, trainees can take home preparatory work on their very own future UNFC training course, approved by their peers and trainers. 1. Teaching principles • Important aspects of course design include the definition of (a) learning goals & objectives, (b) teaching & learning activities, and (c) feedback & assessment activities. These three aspects need to be aligned. • The hierarchy of learning levels according to Bloom’s taxonomy [17] needs to be considered. Teaching at any level requires that the levels below have already been covered. • The importance of experiential learning (by doing) and social learning (from co-workers and peers) compared to formal learning (through frontal lecturing) should be recognized. Trainees should be given sufficient time to learn by trial and error, by applying theories, solving problems and discussing with peers (active learning). Passive learning (through lecturing) should be reduced where possible, as retention rates after passive learning phases are much lower (≤ 30 %) than after active learning activities (≥ 50%). • Active and passive learning activities should alternate. • Successful time management is facilitated by setting time limits for each task, planning buffer time, and by prioritizing activities and identifying those which can be dropped if necessary. 2. Teaching methods Teaching methods such as blended learning, flipped classroom, brainstorming, fishbowl discussion, peer teaching, jigsaw, role play or world café, should be explained and examples for each method presented, including possible topics, objectives, outcomes, operation (duration, classroom setup, group building) and necessary material. Further information can be found at https://www.geologicalservice.eu/upload/files/EU%20ICE%20SRM%20UNFC%20training/Training %203/4_L3_How%20to%20teach.pdf. 3. Implementation of one (or more) teaching methods For example, the teaching method “World Café” can be conducted so that participants experience how this particular method can be implemented. During the exercise, participants form four groups and rotate between four tables, each time brainstorming a different topic (e.g. topic 1: Who are the target groups for UNFC national training and what pre-existing knowledge do they have?; topic 2: What modules / aspects do you need to teach?; topic 3: What are country-specific aspects for national UNFC implementation / training?; topic 4: How do you want to balance passive and active learning in class and at home?). Results are noted down at each table, leading to a comprehensive list of ideas from all participants, related to the table’s topic. If the above mentioned four topics are chosen, the exercise serves a dual purpose. On the one hand, future UNFC trainers learn and practice the “World Café” method, on the other hand trainees already collect ideas for the design of their national UNFC training courses. If any other teaching method is chosen, it is recommended that the same topics are addressed to strengthen the both purposes. 4. Group work in national teams: Development of a roadmap for UNFC implementation in specific country Based on the insight gained during the previous sessions on the design of national UNFC training courses, participants of each country should form national teams to develop a roadmap for UNFC implementation in their country. This includes (a) the identification of stakeholders and target groups for teaching, (b) the definition of teaching modules and the choice of suitable teaching methods, (c) the consideration of country-specific aspects and (d) a first draft of a course design. 5. Plenary discussion National teams should present the results of their work to the other participants in a panel session and discuss their roadmap with invited experts, including a round of feedback from the audience. Guidelines and National implementation of UNFC The section focuses on the preparation of national guidelines for UNFC implementation within a specific country. An official national UNFC guidance should be the result of broader, national-level consultations, to which national UNFC training sessions with the participation of the relevant stakeholders can also contribute. These documents should be short, transparent and as easily understandable as possible, and aligned with the available UNECE documents. Considering the national or regional resource management conditions, the recommended content could include the following: 1. Introduction (Why is the application of UNFC important at the national level? Reference to CRMA, UNECE documents, and GSEU objectives); 2. Background: Brief description of past and current UNFC activities with reference to relevant projects (can be omitted); 3. Presentation of the national resource management system with references to the relevant legislative documents; 4. A brief introduction to the UNFC and references to relevant UNECE documents; 5. UNFC methodology: data sources on national level for the "E" category, data sources for the "F" category, data sources for the "G" category; This could also be approached in a different way, for example: Mining Projects, Viable Projects, Potentially Viable Projects, Prospective Projects, Non- Viable Projects and Historic Estimates. 5. Conclusion The presented UNFC “Train the Trainer” programme supports the implementation of the UNFC required by the Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA) [1]. The main target groups are stakeholders dealing with raw material information. The programme aims to prepare the participants/trainees to become Qualified Experts for the compilation and use of information under the UNFC-umbrella and enable them to provide coherent advice on UNFC and its application across the EU and globally. The aim of the ICE-SRM EU capacity building Train-the-Trainer programme is to enhance expert’s and stakeholders’ knowledge on the use of UNFC classification system at a national level. This is enabled by the ICE-CRM EU Train-the-Trainer programme followed by implementation of the UNFC training programmes at national level by participants/trainees from the Geological Surveys. The training programme will also assist in giving the experts a solid grounding regarding • UNFC classification of strategic projects; • enhancing the project inventories across Europe; • supporting estimation, classification and management of resources. During the training programme, participants be provided an overview of the main UNFC related issues, understanding of the key documents, get first insights of permission application in the context of raw materials, and learn how to deal with most common issues through hands-on work on relevant case studies The Train-the-Trainer programme has been designed within the limitations of the HE-project GSEU Grant Agreement. It will assist, but not replace or overrule, any national activities that may be required. The training focusses on raw materials (minerals and bulk materials). Resource estimation and public reporting using international standards and national systems remains crucial, as resource classifications according to UNFC does not necessarily replace but rather complement such compilation of information. 6. References [1] EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND THE COUNCIL OF THE EUROPEAN UNION, 2024. Critical Raw Material Act - CRMA: REGULATION (EU) 2024/1252 OF THE EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT AND OF THE COUNCIL of 11 April 2024 establishing a framework for ensuring a secure and sustainable supply of critical raw materials and amending Regulations (EU) No 168/2013, (EU) 2018/858, (EU) 2018/1724 and (EU) 2019/1020, OJ L, 2024/1252, 3.5.2024, ELI:https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2024/1252/oj [2] UNECE, 2019. United Nations Framework Classification for Resources Update 2019: https://unece.org/sites/default/files/2023-10/UNFC_ES61_Update_2019.pdf [3] EU INTERNATIONAL CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE ON SUSTAINABLE RESOURCE MANAGEMENT - ICE-SRM EU. https://www.geologicalservice.eu/areas-of-expertise/raw- materials/european-international-centre-of-excellence-on-sustainable-resource-management [4] GEOLOGICAL SERVICE FOR EUROPE (GSEU): https://www.geologicalservice.eu/ [5] EUROPEAN COMMISSION, 2007. Directive 2007/2/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 March 2007 establishing an Infrastructure for Spatial Information in the European Community (INSPIRE). European Parliament and of the Council of the European Union. Official Journal of the European Union. Directive 2007/2/EC. http://data.europa.eu/eli/dir/2007/2/oj. [6] EUROPEAN COMMISSION, 2013. INSPIRE Data Specification on Mineral Resources – Technical Guidelines v3.0. Infrastructure for Spatial Information in Europe. European Parliament and of the Council of the European Union, 156 pp. [7] UNECE, 2021. Supplementary Specifications for the Application of the UNFC for Minerals. United Nations, Geneva. https://unece.org/sites/default/files/2022- 01/UNFC%20Mineral%20Specifications%202021.pdf [8] UNECE, 2022. UNFC GUIDANCE EUROPE Guidance for the Application of the United Nations Framework Classification for Resources (UNFC) for Mineral and Anthropogenic Resources in Europe, United Nations, Geneva. https://unece.org/sites/default/files/2022- 10/Revised_UNFC_Guidance_Europe_as_of_19.October.2022.pdf [9] UNECE, 2024. Bridging Document between the Committee for Mineral Reserves International Reporting Standards Template and the United Nations Framework Classification for Resources*. Prepared by the Ad Hoc Task Group for Revising the Committee for Mineral Reserves International Reporting Standards (CRIRSCO) Template and the United Nations Framework Classification for Resources (UNFC) Bridging Document https://unece.org/sites/default/files/2024- 04/CRIRSCO_Template_UNFC_BD_ECE_ENERGY_GE.3_2024_5_ENG.pdf [10] UNECE, 2024. Guidance Note on the use of the Bridging Document between the CRIRSCO Template and UNFC https://unece.org/sites/default/files/2024-04/EGRM-15-2024- INF.3_UNECE_CRIRSCO_Guidance_Note_Use_of_CRIRSCOTemplate- UNFC_BridgingDoc.pdf [11] CRIRSCO, 2024. International Reporting Template for the public reporting of Exploration Targets, Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves. June 2024. ICMM. https://crirsco.com/wp- content/uploads/woocommerce_uploads/2024/06/CRIRSCO_International_Reporting_Templ ate_June2024_Update_Approved_for_Release_20240627-dl8515.pdf [12] UNECE, 2022. Guidance Note on Competency Requirements for the Estimation, Classification and Management of Resources https://unece.org/sites/default/files/2022- 11/Guidance_Note_on_Competency_Requirements_25_October_2022.pdf [13] CRIRSCO, 2025. CRIRSCO Beyond Inferred Position Paper 2025. https://crirsco.com/product/crirsco-beyond-inferred-position-paper-2025/ [14] PFLEIDERER, S., HOLNSTEINER, R., PUPP, M., WEBER, L., MELCHER, F., LEITNER, T. & WEIDNER, K. 2025. UNFC Guidance Austria - Guidance for the Application of the United Nations Framework Classification for Resources UNFC to Mineral Rersources in Austria. Jahrbuch für Geowissenschaften der GeoSphere Austria. vol. 2 (in print) [15] DE-VITRY, C., 2014. Overview – Risk in Resource and Reserve Estimation, Monograph 30 - Mineral Resources & Ore Reserves Estimation, The AusIMM Guide to Practice. Second Edition. Chapter 7: Risk in Resource and Reserve Estimation: pp. 573-577 [16] JORC, 2012. Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (The JORC Code) [online]. http://www.jorc.org (The Joint Ore Reserves Committee of The Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy, Australian Institute of Geoscientists and Minerals Council of Australia). [17] BLOOM, B. S., ENGELHART, M. D., FURST, E. J., HILL, W. H. & KRATHWOHL, D. R.1956. Taxonomy of educational objectives: The classification of educational goals. Vol. Handbook I: Cognitive domain. New York: David McKay Company.