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60 Minutes March 22, 2026 6m

How recycling could help power America's rare earth future

Summary

The main theme is achieving supply chain security for rare earth elements by exploring alternative methods to mining. Key references include the 17 metallic elements essential for modern technologies like smartphones and wind turbines, with China holding a near monopoly. The practical takeaway is that recycling less than 1% of consumed rare earths and cleaning up existing waste sites could significantly enhance supply chain security without requiring new mines.

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