US Mines Already Have the Critical Minerals They Need—But They're Being Thrown Away
2025-08-23
A new analysis reveals that US mines already produce all the critical minerals needed annually for energy, defense, and technology, but these minerals—including cobalt, lithium, gallium, and rare earth elements—are currently discarded as tailings from other mining operations. The challenge lies in economically recovering these valuable resources. By improving recovery technologies and implementing supportive policies, the US could significantly reduce its reliance on imports and lessen the environmental impact of mining waste, according to the study.
(phys.org)