Solvay, a chemical firm, has operated a rare earth processing facility in La Rochelle, western France, for nearly 80 years. The plant is being expanded to meet rising demand for rare earth metals, which are integral to various technologies, including smartphones and electric vehicles. Despite their importance, approximately 70% of rare earths are mined, and 90% are refined in China, due to extensive government support. This situation has prompted Europe to seek greater independence from Chinese imports.
The EU’s Critical Raw Materials Act was introduced to reduce reliance on external sources for various essential materials by 2030. Solvay’s facility is one of only two rare earth processing plants in Europe and the only one capable of processing all 17 rare earth metals outside China. The company is shifting its focus from catalytic converters to supplying magnets, which are essential for electric car batteries and advanced electronics. Solvay aims to obtain 30% of Europe’s rare earth needs through recycling existing materials.
European countries currently lack operational rare earth mines, with ongoing projects in Norway and Sweden expected to take up to a decade before production begins. The complex process of refining rare earths involves around 1,500 steps, and the facility employs over 300 people.
The French government is providing substantial financial support for the facility, recognizing the necessity of diversifying supply sources due to potential geopolitical threats and supply vulnerabilities. Meanwhile, the European Parliament is advocating for increased efforts to lessen dependence on Chinese rare earths. China’s foreign minister has defended export controls as a sovereign right, complicating international relations regarding rare earth supply chains.
Overall, the future of Europe’s rare earth industry seems contingent on balancing environmental responsibilities and securing commitments from customers amid rising production costs and competition.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cm2zp6m4gy7o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss