When discussing modern technology, we often think of innovative devices, fast networks, and advanced artificial intelligence systems.
However, few consider the valuable hidden elements that make all this possible: rare earths.
These minerals, essential for the production of smartphones, computers, electric vehicles, and wind turbines, are at the center of a complex network of extraction, trade, and both environmental and geopolitical challenges.
What are rare earths?
Rare earths refer to a group of 17 chemical elements in the periodic table, including lanthanum, neodymium, cerium, and europium.
Although the term "rare" might suggest their scarcity in quantitative terms, these elements are not necessarily rare in the Earth's crust.
The difficulty lies in their isolation, as they are often found mixed with other minerals and in very low concentrations, making the extraction and refining process complex and expensive.
For example, neodymium is an essential component for permanent magnets used in electric car motors and wind turbine generators.
Europium, on the other hand, is used to produce vibrant colors on LED screens.
Each element has unique properties that make it crucial in specific sectors, which is why global demand continues to grow.
Where are rare earths found and how are they extracted?
Rare earths are primarily found in deposits of igneous rocks and sediments.
The main known deposits are located in China, Australia, Brazil, the United States, and Russia, with China dominating the global market with over 60% of total production.
Extraction occurs in two phases: the recovery of raw ore from the subsoil and the subsequent chemical separation of the desired elements.
However, this process has serious environmental consequences.
Mining waste can contain toxic and radioactive substances, such as thorium, contaminating soil and water.
The Bayan Obo mine in Inner Mongolia (China), for instance, serves as a striking example: despite being one of the world's main sources of rare earths, the ecological impact in the region is devastating, with surrounding villages facing high levels of pollution.
Applications of rare earths in modern technology
Rare earths are ubiquitous in electronic devices and green technologies. Here are some examples:
- Smartphones and laptops: elements like lanthanum and cerium are used for camera lenses and to polish displays.
- Electric vehicles: electric vehicle motors contain neodymium magnets, which improve energy efficiency.
- Wind turbines: similar magnets are essential for the operation of the latest generation wind generators.
- Lighting and displays: europium and terbium are used to create red and green colors in LED screens and fluorescent bulbs.
Without these elements, many of today's technological advancements would not be possible.
However, this dependence raises questions about alternatives and the sustainability of the supply chain.
Environmental impacts of rare earth extraction
One of the main issues related to rare earths is the environmental impact of their life cycle.
Indeed, their extraction and processing require the use of large amounts of water and chemicals, resulting in the production of toxic waste.
Moreover, greenhouse gas emissions from the industrial process contribute to climate change.
According to a report by the United States Geological Survey (USGS), the extraction of one ton of rare earths generates about 2000 tons of mining waste.
This data highlights the need to find more sustainable methods to manage these resources.
A positive example comes from the European Union, which is investing in recycling technologies to recover rare earths from obsolete electronic devices.
The REE4EU project, for example, aims to develop innovative methods for recovering these elements from industrial waste and end-of-life products.
Geopolitics of rare earths: a strategic resource
China is a dominant country in the production of rare earths.
To reduce dependence on China and to prevent these resources from being used as a geopolitical lever, other countries are trying to develop their own extraction capabilities.
For example, the United States has reopened mines like the one at Mountain Pass in California, while Australia and Canada are exploring new deposits.
However, the competition for these resources can fuel international tensions, especially in a context of increasing global demand.
Another critical factor is the control of supply chains.
The refining of rare earths occurs almost exclusively in China, making it difficult for other countries to ensure independence in the production process.
Towards a more sustainable future
To address the challenges related to rare earths, joint efforts at the global level are needed.
Among the possible solutions, the following stand out:
- Recycling and recovery: increasing the recovery of rare earths from used electronic devices can reduce dependence on primary extraction.
- Technological alternatives: developing substitute materials with similar properties could decrease the demand for rare earths. For example, some researchers are working on neodymium-free magnets for electric vehicles.
- Environmental regulation: implementing stricter standards for the extraction and processing of rare earths can reduce the environmental impact.
Rare earths, therefore, represent the hidden side of modern technology; indispensable elements but laden with environmental, economic, and geopolitical complexities.
Addressing the challenges associated with their extraction and use requires a holistic approach that combines innovation, sustainability, and international cooperation.
Only in this way can we ensure that technological progress does not come at the expense of the planet and future generations.