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

Rare earth elements (REEs) are critical resources required to achieve net-zero carbonemission targets and energy security. However, rising demand for REEs coupled withsignificant extraction and processing challenges and geopolitical risks restricts accessto REE resources. REE processing innovations that reduce hazardous waste genera-tion and improve extraction efficiency are needed. Plants, and some microorganisms,can harness REE properties to enhance their metabolic processes and physiologicalfunctions. Exploration and understanding of the mechanisms plants and microbes useto manage REEs can inspire improved processes for extraction and refining towardsmeeting growing demand for these essential elements while minimizing negativeenvironmental impacts.SummaryCreating a sustainable future involves transitioning to green- and clean-energy tech-nologies, which require materials like rare earth elements (REEs). There are REEs thathave 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 medicalimaging devices. As REE demand rises, improving REE extraction processes and build-ing capacity for recycling and recovery of REEs from waste is becoming increasinglyimportant to ensure we have sustainable and sufficient REE supply for manufacturingthe technologies of the future. Understanding how REEs interact with biological pro-cesses is important for ensuring responsible management of REEs in our environ-ment. This paper explores why some living organisms like plants and microbesbioaccumulate REEs. Our current understanding of the interaction of REEs in biologyand gaps in knowledge of whether REEs enhance functional capabilities in livingorganisms are discussed. Greater understanding of how and why some living organ-isms can tolerate and potentially benefit from REE properties could inspire novelstrategies and technologies for securing a sustainable REE supply.