Interactions of rare earth elements with living organisms and emerging biotechnical applications

Societal Impact StatementRare earth elements (REEs) are critical resources required to achieve net-zero carbon emission targets and energy security. However, rising demand for REEs coupled with significant extraction and processing challenges and geopolitical risks restricts access to REE resources. REE processing innovations that reduce hazardous waste generation and improve extraction efficiency are needed. Plants, and some microorganisms, can harness REE properties to enhance their metabolic processes and physiological functions. Exploration and understanding of the mechanisms plants and microbes use to manage REEs can inspire improved processes for extraction and refining towards meeting growing demand for these essential elements while minimizing negative environmental impacts.SummaryCreating a sustainable future involves transitioning to green- and clean-energy technologies, which require materials like rare earth elements (REEs). There are REEs that have catalytic, electrical, magnetic, and phosphorescent properties that are unique. REE properties enhance functional capability in technologies such as electronics, electric vehicles, direct drive generators in wind turbines, and optical and medical imaging devices. As REE demand rises, improving REE extraction processes and building capacity for recycling and recovery of REEs from waste is becoming increasingly important to ensure we have sustainable and sufficient REE supply for manufacturing the technologies of the future. Understanding how REEs interact with biological processes is important for ensuring responsible management of REEs in our environment. This paper explores why some living organisms like plants and microbes bioaccumulate REEs. Our current understanding of the interaction of REEs in biology and gaps in knowledge of whether REEs enhance functional capabilities in living organisms are discussed. Greater understanding of how and why some living organisms can tolerate and potentially benefit from REE properties could inspire novel strategies and technologies for securing a sustainable REE supply.