ROTATE has gained international visibility at the 9th Global Aggregates Information Network (GAIN) Meeting, held in Huzhou, China, from 25 to 27 October 2026. The project was highlighted alongside other European research and innovation initiatives, showcasing Europe’s commitment to advancing sustainability, resource efficiency, and circularity in the raw materials and aggregates sectors.
The meeting, hosted by the China Aggregates Association (CAA), brought together industry representatives and experts from around the world to exchange knowledge and explore the latest developments in technology, artificial intelligence, and sustainable quarrying. It provided an important opportunity to share European experiences and discuss how innovation can help address the challenges facing the global aggregates industry.
As part of the session “Latest Technology Innovations from Europe and other GAIN regions”, held on 26 October, César Luaces Frades, representing the Spanish Aggregates Federation (FdA), was scheduled to deliver a presentation entitled “How the EU DEQ, ROTATE, SCIMIN Projects are Reshaping the Industry”. The presentation highlighted three European initiatives — ROTATE, DigiEcoQuarry and SCIMIN-CRM — and their contribution to innovation and the transformation of the raw materials sector.
The programme also included other presentations by César Luaces Frades addressing the future of the industry, including “AI & Capabilities”, “Quarry of the Future” and “Employment & Skills”. These sessions explored the opportunities offered by emerging technologies, the potential of artificial intelligence, and the changing skills needed to support the industry’s digital and sustainable transition.
For ROTATE, being featured in this international forum represents a valuable opportunity to raise awareness of the project’s work on resource efficiency, circular economy solutions, and more sustainable practices across the raw materials value chain. Sharing these initiatives with an international audience helps strengthen connections between European research and industry stakeholders worldwide.
The ROTATE team would like to thank the Spanish Aggregates Federation (FdA), ANEFA and Aggregates Europe for helping bring European innovation to the global stage. Events such as the GAIN Meeting demonstrate the importance of international collaboration and knowledge sharing in building a more sustainable, innovative, and circular raw materials industry.
