One Environmental Journalist Thinks that the U.S. Needs More Mining
The New Yorker Radio Hour
Deep Dive
Why does Vince Beiser believe the U.S. should allow more mining despite its environmental impact?
Vince Beiser argues that more mining in the U.S. is necessary to secure the metals required for the energy transition, including electric vehicles (EVs) and solar panels. While mining is inherently destructive, the U.S. has higher environmental and labor standards compared to countries like Indonesia or Myanmar, where much of the mining currently occurs. Additionally, reshoring mining would reduce reliance on China, which dominates the global supply chain for rare earth metals, and provide greater control over critical industries.
What is the significance of rare earth metals in modern technology?
Rare earth metals are essential for renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, and consumer electronics. For example, europium, a rare earth metal, is used in cell phone screens to produce the color red. These metals are critical for the energy transition, but their supply chain is heavily dominated by China, which mines, processes, and refines the majority of these metals globally.
What are the environmental challenges associated with rare earth mining?
Rare earth mining is highly polluting and destructive. For instance, China's largest rare earth mine is one of the most polluted places on Earth. Mining operations often result in toxic waste spills, waterway pollution, and significant environmental degradation. In the U.S., historical mining has left half of the waterways in the American West polluted. Despite these challenges, mining is necessary to meet the growing demand for metals used in sustainable technologies.
What is phytomining, and how could it revolutionize metal extraction?
Phytomining is an innovative approach that uses plants to extract metals like cobalt and nickel from the soil. Certain plants absorb metals through their roots and store them in their stalks and leaves. The plants can then be harvested, burned, and processed to extract the metals. This method could not only provide a cleaner alternative to traditional mining but also help clean up polluted areas. However, phytomining is still in the research phase and not yet scalable or profitable.
What are the geopolitical implications of China's dominance in rare earth metals?
China's control over the rare earth metals supply chain gives it significant geopolitical leverage. The country mines, processes, and refines the majority of these metals, which are essential for renewable energy and digital technologies. This dominance has led to concerns about supply chain security, prompting efforts in the U.S. and other countries to reshore mining and reduce dependence on China.
How does the Mountain Pass mine in California address environmental concerns?
The Mountain Pass mine in California, once a major source of rare earth metals, was shut down due to toxic waste spills. The current owners have implemented a new wastewater treatment system that evaporates water, separates chemicals, and consolidates waste into lined impoundments. While mining remains inherently destructive, these measures have made the operation cleaner and safer compared to its previous state.
What is the potential impact of reducing car ownership on metal demand and climate change?
Reducing car ownership could significantly decrease the demand for metals and energy, as cars are the largest consumers of both. Vince Beiser suggests that replacing 1.2 billion gas-powered cars with 500 million electric vehicles, rather than an equal number, would reduce environmental strain. Additionally, promoting walkable cities, public transit, and cycling can improve quality of life and further reduce resource consumption.
What are the potential effects of Trump's policies on domestic mining and renewable energy?
Trump's policies could make it easier to open new mines in the U.S. by reducing environmental regulations, which may benefit the mining industry. However, his lack of support for renewable energy and electric vehicles, including plans to eliminate EV rebates, could hinder the energy transition. This creates a mixed outlook for both mining and renewable energy under his administration.
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