The Guardian view on rare earths: it’s common sense to secure essential supply chains
Outsourcing the industry to China cannot continue, but Europe knows it can no longer count on the US for a solution
TL;DR
- China controls a significant majority of global rare earth mining and processing.
- Past Chinese export restrictions have spurred a global scramble for alternative rare earth supplies.
- Diversifying supply chains requires predictable demand and pricing, as extraction and processing are costly and complex.
- The US is investing in domestic rare earth production and critical minerals reserves, while China also seeks to diversify its sources.
- Ecological concerns are raised regarding potential new mining sites in South Africa, Greenland, and Brazil.
- Innovation in recycling and extraction from waste could mitigate demand and environmental damage.
- A multilateral approach is essential, with Europe pursuing its own diversification strategies and partnerships.
- Europe aims to reduce import dependence by 2030 through initiatives like the European Critical Raw Materials Act.