Rare

Rare explores the global race to secure rare earth elements (REEs) essential for modern technology, medicine, and energy systems. Keith Veronese, a chemist, examines mining challenges, geopolitical tensions, and environmental impacts tied to these metals, while delving into historical contexts like Cold War competition and unethical recycling practices in developing nations. The book also speculates on future sources, including space and ocean mining.

This book suits readers interested in science, geopolitics, or economics, particularly those curious about supply chain vulnerabilities for technologies like smartphones and electric vehicles. Professionals in tech, environmental policy, or global trade will gain insights into REEs’ strategic importance. Accessible for non-experts, it balances technical detail with engaging storytelling.

Yes, for its thorough exploration of REEs’ role in modern industry and conflicts. While some criticize tangential sections (e.g., gold counterfeiting, assassination methods), the book’s analysis of China’s market dominance, Arctic mining potential, and ethical dilemmas in recycling offers valuable perspectives. It’s praised for making complex chemistry and geopolitics digestible.

China controls ~90% of REE production through strategic investments, lax environmental regulations, and long-term stockpiling. Veronese details how this monopoly lets China influence prices and restrict exports, forcing other nations to seek alternative sources or recycling methods. Historical policies from the 1980s-1990s laid the groundwork for this dominance.

REE extraction requires toxic chemicals like sulfuric acid, often contaminating water and soil. Veronese highlights “dirty recycling” in Ghana and India, where unprotected workers dismantle e-waste, risking exposure to mercury and lead. Mining in conflict zones like the Democratic Republic of Congo also fuels ecological destruction.

Platinum’s resistance to corrosion makes it vital for catalytic converters, lab equipment, and cancer treatments. Veronese traces its scarcity—most reserves are in South Africa and Russia—and discusses synthetic alternatives. Its high value also links to illegal mining and black-market trading.

The Cold War drove REE research for military tech, like missile guidance systems and nuclear reactors. Veronese notes the U.S. stockpiled dysprosium and neodymium, while the Soviet Union mined uranium in Central Asia. These priorities reshaped global mining networks and cold-war-era alliances.

Afghanistan holds untapped REE reserves worth trillions, but Veronese argues instability, corruption, and lack of infrastructure hinder development. He compares it to the Democratic Republic of Congo, where mineral wealth fueled conflict instead of prosperity, emphasizing the “resource curse” risk.

Veronese explores mining Antarctica’s icy deserts (though banned by treaty), Greenland’s melting glaciers, and ocean floor hydrothermal vents. He also speculates on asteroid mining, noting companies like Planetary Resources already planning space-based extraction. Recycling urban landfills is presented as a near-term solution.

Critics argue Veronese deviates into less relevant topics, like natural nuclear reactors in Africa or polonium assassinations, which distract from core themes. Some find the writing style overly anecdotal, though others praise its accessibility. The lack of deep dives into specific REE applications is another noted gap.

With a PhD in chemistry and experience writing for io9 and Gawker, Veronese blends scientific rigor with engaging prose. His expertise shines in explaining complex processes like solvent extraction and neutron capture, while his journalism background ensures readability for non-specialists.

• “While the seventeen metals may be distributed evenly throughout the planet, finding an extractable quantity is a challenge” underscores geological vs. economic scarcity.
• “Dirty recycling is the price we pay for our addiction to upgrade culture” critiques e-waste practices.
• “The next war may be fought over rare earths, not oil” warns of future resource conflicts.

The epilogue advocates for urban mining (recovering REEs from discarded electronics) and international treaties to prevent Arctic exploitation. Veronese cautions against overreliance on speculative solutions like asteroid mining, urging immediate investment in recycling tech and alternative materials.