Japanese Media: Look for Rare Earths in Secondhand Home Appliances
According to a report by Japan's daily newspaper "Mainichi Shimbun" on April 20, the Japanese Ministry of the Environment will conduct an investigation into rare metals and rare earth elements contained in secondhand electronic devices and household appliances by 2026.
Valuable resources found in used electronics and household appliances are referred to as "urban mines." The ministry will assess the overall situation and promote improvements in recycling rates. This initiative has already been included in the circular economy action plan to be announced by the Japanese government on the 21st.
The investigation will cover ten types of minerals, including rare metals and rare earth elements. Factors such as future domestic demand and export restrictions will be taken into account.
In addition, based on existing statistical data and interviews with companies, the ministry will investigate the levels at which each mineral exist within society.
The Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC) will assess resource usage in products and the quantity discarded after recycling.
Extracting rare earth elements from ores requires large-scale equipment, and high costs remain a significant issue. Therefore, it is urgent to expand collection efforts through recycling.
The Ministry of the Environment will launch pilot projects starting fiscal year 2026 to collect rare earth elements from secondhand cars and household appliances.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1863000421404683/
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