Chinese scientists discovered a 'vacuum cleaner' plant for rare metals

Chinese scientists have found rare elements in living plants, specifically in the fern species Blechnum orientale. This discovery is significant for science as it shows how plants can absorb these rare earth elements from the environment and form important minerals. Such 'biomonazite' could serve as a safe alternative to natural monazite, which contains radioactive substances.

Rare earth metals play a vital role in high-tech industries, and their shortage can create serious problems. Thus, this discovery paves the way for the development of environmentally friendly technologies for the extraction of these valuable metals, helping to reduce pressure on their reserves and the search for new supply sources.

Recent events in trade cooperation between China and the USA highlight the importance of seeking alternative sources of scarce resources and reforming global supply chains on which modern industry relies.