Europe aims to achieve climate neutrality by 2050. Transitioning to a net-zero society requires research and innovations in energy, transport, manufacturing, and sustainable practices globally, as emissions and climate change are transboundary issues. Materials play a key role in this transition, which also increases Europe's dependence on import of critical raw materials. These are crucial for green technologies. While the shift to green energy offers climate benefits, the irresponsible sourcing of raw materials for the transition can lead to environmental harm, human rights violations, and supply challenges, particularly as most critical materials are sourced and produced outside Europe. To ensure sustainability and energy self-sufficiency, Europe must aim for greater reliance on recycling, circular economy practices, and strategic sourcing. While electric vehicles can significantly reduce emissions, their environmental benefits depend heavily on the electricity mix used for charging, as well as the energy-intensive processes involved in battery production. Transition to electric vehicles is essential for decarbonizing transport, which however is not without challenges. Solar panels do provide renewable energy, but their production is energy-intensive and may have significant environmental impacts. Also in the case of wind turbines, essential for green energy, limited sources and energy-intensive production of rare-earth elements combined with issues such as local climate impacts present ongoing environmental and societal challenges. Finally, in the case of green hydrogen the main challenges revolve around the source of energy for production, storage, and transportation, with all presenting significant energy and material challenges.