A US-backed rare earths project in Limpopo is set to reprocess gypsum waste, a material used to improve soil structure, to extract critical minerals. This development comes at a time when fertiliser price increases linked to Middle East disruptions are putting food prices in focus.
The project, which is expected to create jobs and stimulate economic growth, will utilize a unique technology to extract rare earth elements from gypsum waste. This will not only reduce waste but also provide a valuable source of critical minerals.
Rare Earths and Their Importance
Rare earths are a group of 17 elements that are crucial for the production of various high-tech products, including electronics, renewable energy technologies, and advanced ceramics. According to the United States Geological Survey, the global demand for rare earths is increasing rapidly, driven by the growing demand for these products.
How the Project Will Impact Food Prices
The extraction of rare earths from gypsum waste will have a positive impact on food prices in South Africa. The production of fertilisers, which are essential for agriculture, relies on the availability of rare earths. By extracting these elements from gypsum waste, the project will help to increase the supply of fertilisers, leading to lower prices and increased food production.
Some of the benefits of the project include:
- Job creation: The project is expected to create jobs in the mining and manufacturing sectors.
- Economic growth: The project will stimulate economic growth by increasing the production of rare earths and fertilisers.
- Reduced waste: The project will reduce the amount of gypsum waste, which is currently a significant environmental problem.
The project is a significant development for South Africa, as it will help to reduce the country’s reliance on imported rare earths. It will also contribute to the growth of the country’s mining and manufacturing sectors, which are critical for economic development.
