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Measure Aims to Ensure Access to Critical Minerals Amid Chinese Restrictions on Rare Earths
Donald Trump signed an executive order to support deep-sea mining. The measure was a direct response to recent restrictions by China on rare earth exports, essential for the technology and defense industries.
Deep-Sea Mining: The New Bet of the U.S.
The U.S. government has decided to invest in the development of submarine mining to ensure access to essential minerals. The initiative marks a shift in the U.S. strategy, seeking alternative sources outside the control of major powers like China.
The main focus of mining is the extraction of rare earths, used in the manufacture of electronics, electric vehicles, and defense equipment. With the new policy, the country aims to accelerate projects that explore the seabed in a viable and safe manner.
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Brazil extracts 26.3 million tons of ore from what was previously treated as waste, transforming residues into wealth, producing over 3 million tons of sand, and demonstrating how national mining is relearning to generate value.
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A $3.5 billion megaproject in Latin America pumps desalinated seawater at 1,050 liters per second over 194 km to keep a copper supermine in the Andes operational for another 20 years.
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A hidden mine in the Andes valued at nearly R$ 1 trillion is starting to attract global attention, containing copper, gold, and silver, and raises an intriguing question: why do Argentina and Chile need to act together to exploit this gigantic wealth?
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A silent discovery in the interior of Bahia could change the future of energy in Brazil: a uranium reserve in Lagoa Real has an estimated capacity to produce 400 tons per year and is already attracting the attention of energy sector specialists.
The Impact of China’s Restrictions on Supply Chains
China dominates over 80% of the world’s rare earth production, leaving the United States in a vulnerable position. The new restrictions imposed by the Chinese government have heightened American concerns regarding the supply of these materials.
Without domestic alternatives, strategic sectors of the American economy may face direct impacts. Deep-sea mining appears as an emergency solution to ensure autonomy and protect national production chains.
Objectives of the New Executive Order on Mining
The order signed by Trump directs federal agencies to support financing and approval of ocean mining projects. The goal is to create a favorable environment for private and public companies to accelerate the production of strategic minerals.
In doing so, the United States aims to reduce external dependence and ensure greater energy, industrial, and military security. The bet on the seabed seeks to strengthen American dominance in highly competitive sectors.
Environmental Challenges in the Seabed
Experts warn that mining in deep waters can cause severe damage to marine ecosystems. The activity may affect little-known species, alter natural habitats, and compromise ocean biodiversity.
Therefore, environmental organizations and scientists advocate for strict regulations on projects. They call for more studies to assess impacts and create international standards before the large-scale expansion of this activity.
Já não tem nem água potável nos Estados Unidos devido a exploração de gás!! Retiraram o carvão e agora o gaz !! Que quando as minas se enche de água contamina os rios da região com enxofre!! Tanto que o Trump tava brigando por canal de agua da florida porque a agua era limpa e deveria ser pra todos ,,pena que ele só foi notar isso depois de destruir tudo !! Agora tem carvão e gaz mas falta agua !!