Disruption is the new norm. As global competition for critical minerals intensifies, export restrictions and geopolitical risk have become primary concerns for governments and industry alike. While recycling is often heralded as a solution, the reality is more complex: alone it cannot meet surging demand, but it remains a vital mechanism for improving resilience and diversifying supply. To unlock its potential, we must confront a range of barriers — from outdated waste legislation to fragmented policy that fails to incentivise innovation or investment. With a spotlight on Europe and the UK, Eileen Maes from the Critical Minerals Association (UK) outlines how we got here, where we are going, and the type of coordinated action and change in mindset we will need to see across international governments, industry, and finance to secure responsible critical mineral supply.