Countries act to prevent shortages of rare earths

摘要

As demand for rare earths and oth-er raw materials rises, countries around the world are engaging in strategic planning, negotiating international partnerships, and exploring new sources of rare earths. Although the countries have varied goals and policies, the underlying aim is the same for each-ensuring reliable access to the raw materials that sustain ongoing research, development, and manufacturing. China produced over 97% of the 124,000 metric tons of rare earths produced in 2009, but this model is not sustainable. The demand for rare earths and other raw materials is rising around the world, as is the demand for these materials within China. Export levels from China are dropping dramatically and this trend is likely to continue. China may be a net importer of rare earths as soon as 2015, according to a statement read at the Critical Metals Investment Symposium in January 2011 on behalf of Zhanheng Chen, Academic Director of the Chinese Society for Rare Earths. In the last few years, several countries have created strategic plans to avoid disruptions in their raw materials supply chain. For example, the European Commission published the Raw Materials Initiative in November 2008 and adopted an updated strategy document in February 2011. The United States Department of Energy released Critical Materials Strategy in December 2010 (for details on the strategy, see Science Policy in the March 2011 issue of MRS Bulletin, p. 158).