Seaweed farming could provide greener source of REEs

A new approach to mining rare earth elements (REEs) from seaweed is being explored to meet the rising demand for minerals essential for green technologies. Researchers, supported by a nearly $2m grant from the US Department of Energy, aim to harvest seaweed that hyperaccumulates REEs from coastal waters, potentially providing an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional mining. While success is uncertain, the method could complement conventional mining and contribute to sustainable practices by reducing pollution and carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere. (New Scientist)