Waste: the next major source of rare earth minerals?

IB Times reports that as China limits its export of rare earth minerals, Japanese and American firms look for alternative sources.

The editorial is quoted as saying:

Some of the most innovative steps in recycling are driven by a supply crunch. And that’s the story of the Dowa Mining Plant in Kosaka, northern Japan. It had been out of action for 20 years. But now, following China’s decision to limit export of the rare earth minerals it produces (currently 97% of global supply), Dowa’s furnaces are roaring once more. Only this time, there’s no ore or copper in sight – just mountains of expired electronics, and sacks full of computer chips.

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