The primary and secondary mineral resources of Montenegro and their mapping into the European data model

Primary and secondary mineral resources are of strategic importance to the EU economy. Montenegro, as a country candidate for membership in the EU, is required to follow (and later to implement) European policies, strategies as well as initiatives, including those related to mineral resources and the mining sector. The importance of providing access to mineral raw materials in the future is recognized by the EU, as well as meeting the needs of European industry, maintaining employment and ensuring further development. Considering the overall economic situation in Montenegro, it is important to encourge the mining sector and other industries based on the use of mineral resources in making a greater contribution to the development and sustainability of society as a whole and also increase the share of national GDP. The potential for discovery and utilization of primary and secondary mineral resources in Montenegro is demonstrated. The most important metallic mineral resources are bauxite, lead and zinc, while conventional energy resources include coal (oil and gas potential has yet to be proven). In addition, there are abundant non-metallic mineral raw materials - industrial minerals and construction materials. Secondary mineral resources, especially aluminous red mud (bauxite residue), are also significant and have been the subject of research in recent years. Tailings from flotation processes at operating and abandoned lead and zinc mines might also be of interest for metal recovery. Bottom and flay ash from thermal power plants, slag from steel production, as well as marlstone and limestone from the hanging wall of coal deposits may also have potential. Waste rocks could be used particularly for secondary aggregate production. A database was developed and the most important deposits of primary and secondary mineral resources in Montenegro were mapped during the RESEERVE project. Mineral data were harmonised so as to be INSPIRE compliant. In addition, some novel geochemical exploration results of secondary mineral resources are presented.