preserve interpretability while enabling consistent normalization for comparative, screening-level analysis. Inputs to the assessment are drawn from available data sources, including project information classified in UNFC or best-available proxies, and are scored using clear formulas and reference scales to ensure consistency. Where data gaps exist, structured expert judgement is applied, with explicit documentation of assumptions. For synthesis and visualization, the FWE Nexus Criticality Score is obtained as a weighted aggregation of both dimensions: = where: - CFWE = Food-Water-Energy Nexus Criticality Score With defined indicators, thresholds, and aggregation approaches, a two-dimensional FWE Nexus Criticality Matrix is generated as a function of system exposure and supply risk. The criticality score is designed to support screening, prioritization, and policy dialogue, rather than ranking or decision-making. To ensure interpretability and comparability across minerals, regions, and timeframes, the resulting indices are normalized to a common scale (e.g. 0–10) to enable visualization in a criticality matrix, where System Exposure is plotted against Supply Risk. The resulting FWE Nexus Criticality Score is interpreted as a relative signal of systemic concern, not a definitive measure of scarcity or urgency. It should be noted that criticality thresholds are not prescribed within this methodology. Instead, they are intended to be defined, adjusted, and validated by policymakers based on strategic priorities, risk tolerance, national circumstances, and policy objectives (e.g. security of supply, sustainability, industrial strategy). Outputs are designed to support policy-level interpretation, such as identifying minerals that warrant cross-sectoral coordination, early strategic planning, or alignment with sustainability objectives. The assessment inherently requires collaboration across energy, water, agriculture, environmental, and mineral agencies, and it highlights governance gaps and data fragmentation during the diagnostic process. 5. MIDSTREAM READINESS AND VALUE ADDITION ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY MidReVa evaluates whether feasible pathways exist to develop midstream activities for systemically important minerals, with particular emphasis on repurposing existing industrial assets. The tool does not assess project profitability or bankability; rather, it functions as a screening and structuring instrument to inform policy dialogue and strategic planning. MidReVa is designed to be technology-agnostic, meaning it can be applied to other technologies and industrial value chains relevant to FWE Nexus critical minerals. It is intended to support repurposing and new capacity by explicitly assessing the potential to repurpose existing or underutilized industrial facilities, while remaining applicable to active facilities or expansion scenarios. The methodology of MidReVa relies on accessible, screening- and planning-relevant quantitative and semi-quantitative data, complemented by standardized qualitative expert judgement where necessary, allowing adaptation to 60
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