“Background – Critical raw materials, such as rare earths, have a high economic importance for the EU, combined with a high risk associated with their supply. It is expected that in the coming years, demand for rare earths will grow as consumer preferences shift towards hi-tech and green products. Therefore, the recovery of the RE elements from electronics scrap is extremely important for both economic and environmental reasons.

Scope of the Study –  The objective of the study is to describe the potential of innovative technologies for recovery of rare earths from electronic waste and to evaluate how they could be implemented in industry, in particular in hi tech SMEs.

Main findings – Rare earth elements (REEs) are critical due to their importance in a number of applications, including a number of green technologies, but, primarily, because of the high supply risks arising from the dependence on a single source (China).

At a global level, the demand for rare earth oxides in 2008 was estimated at around 120000 tonnes, expected to increase up to around 170000–200000 tonnes in 2014. The EU is a net importer of REEs and accounted for less than 8% of the total in 2012 However, most REEs that enter the EU are already embodied in components manufactured outside the EU. Since the 1990s China has been producing roughly 90% of the world’s supply of REEs, exceeding 95% in 2011. The increase in the price of REEs during the period 2009- 2011 following China’s decision to tighten its export quotas increased interest in REEs and led to new mining projects outside of China, research into the substitution and recycling of REEs and related policy initiatives. Prices for many REEs have dropped significantly since 2013 as a result of decreased demand following the financial crisis but also the opening of a few new mines outside China and efforts to substitute rare earths. Still, prices for some REEs are 2-3 times higher than the 2009 levels.”