Scientists Explore Bio‑Inspired Recovery of Rare Earths from Coal Ash

Scientists are testing diatoms, sea sponges and plants to extract rare earth elements from coal ash, red mud and mine tailings. The bio‑inspired method could turn large piles of industrial waste into valuable materials while cutting energy consumption, eliminating harsh chemicals and easing the need for new mining. Researchers are evaluating how these organisms bind and concentrate the minerals, then developing scalable processes to harvest the elements. If successful, the technique would provide a cleaner, lower‑impact route to meet growing demand for rare earths used in electronics, renewable‑energy technologies and defense systems. The approach also offers a way to remediate hazardous waste sites.