What in the World Rare earths - The most important minerals you probably haven’t heard of
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Jul 9, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Laura Bicker, a BBC China correspondent known for her keen insights into environmental issues, shares her firsthand experiences at China's rare earth mining sites. She reveals how these crucial minerals, found in everyday technology, pose severe environmental threats due to their extraction processes. Bicker delves into the alarming pollution levels, the toxic waste produced, and the health risks faced by local communities. Listeners gain a clearer understanding of how vital yet harmful these 'rare' resources can be.
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What Are Rare Earths?
- Rare earths are 17 elements with similar chemical properties, including lanthanides plus scandium and yttrium.
- They are vital for electronics, magnets, green technologies, and medical equipment.
Rare Earths in Everyday Tech
- Rare earths are essential components in smartphones, TVs, electric cars, and wind turbines.
- Their unique electrical and magnetic properties make them indispensable in modern technology.
Toxic Extraction Process
- Extracting rare earth minerals involves removing topsoil and adding chemicals like ammonium sulfate in leaching ponds.
- This process creates thousands of tonnes of toxic chemical waste per tonne of rare earth extracted.