The New Yorker Radio Hour: One Environmental Journalist Thinks that the U.S. Needs More Mining

Release Date: January 14, 2025
Host: David Remnick
Guests: Vince Beiser, author of Power Metal; Elizabeth Kolbert, Pulitzer Prize-winning environmental journalist

Introduction

In this compelling episode of The New Yorker Radio Hour, host David Remnick engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Vince Beiser, the author of Power Metal, and Elizabeth Kolbert, a renowned environmental journalist. The discussion delves into the intricate world of rare earth metals, their pivotal role in modern technology and renewable energy, and the environmental and geopolitical challenges associated with their extraction and processing.

Rare Earth Metals and Their Significance

Vince Beiser opens the discussion by highlighting the often-overlooked importance of rare earth metals in everyday devices. He states, “One of my favorite super obscure metals in your phone is probably europium. There are tiny, tiny amounts of europium in your cell phone screen that make it capable of showing the color red” (01:44).

Beiser emphasizes that rare earth metals, comprising 17 elements in total, are crucial for renewable energy technologies, electric vehicles, and a vast array of consumer electronics. He points out, “Almost all of them, one way or another, come through China. China overwhelmingly dominates the supply chain of these rare earth metals” (02:30).

Environmental Impact of Mining

The conversation shifts to the environmental toll of mining activities. Beiser explains that mining is inherently destructive and polluting, citing the example of the Mountain Pass mine in California. He describes the site as “just nothing but empty, silent desert all around you... an enormous pit in the ground” (07:06).

Elizabeth Kolbert adds depth to the discussion by sharing her experiences reporting on environmental degradation, such as the melting ice sheets in Greenland. The dialogue underscores the urgent need to balance technological advancement with environmental stewardship.

Geopolitical Implications of Mining Dominance

Beiser discusses the geopolitical leverage China gains by controlling the rare earth supply chain. He remarks, “China, too, is getting kind of fed up with this... They're now outsourcing some of their production to other places” (04:54). This dominance poses challenges for Western countries striving for energy independence and technological advancement.

Reshoring Mining in the U.S. and Canada

A significant portion of the discussion centers on the potential benefits of reshoring mining operations to the United States and Canada. Beiser advocates for this shift, arguing, “We have higher environmental standards... What I would argue it can be done with less overall damage to the planet if it's done in the United States” (05:11).

He highlights the strategic importance of controlling critical industries and reducing dependence on China. The conversation touches upon legislative efforts like the Inflation Reduction Act, which aims to support domestic mining activities.

Innovative and Sustainable Mining Practices

Beiser introduces innovative ideas aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of mining. He is particularly enthusiastic about phytomining, a process where plants are used to extract metals from the soil. He describes it as, “basically using plants to mine... you could plant a bunch of these plants and basically clean the earth” (12:38).

While promising, Beiser notes that phytomining is still in the research phase and not yet commercially viable. However, he remains hopeful about its potential to revolutionize sustainable mining practices.

Looking Ahead: Policy and Personal Responsibility

The episode concludes with a discussion on future policies under different U.S. administrations. Beiser speculates on the Trump administration's potential impact, suggesting it might “make it easier... for people to open up these critical metal mines” (14:08). However, he also expresses uncertainty about the administration's stance on renewable energy incentives.

Beiser offers a personal perspective on reducing environmental impact, sharing his experience of downsizing his family's vehicle fleet in Vancouver to embrace sustainable living. He asserts, “The most impact that we as individuals can have on all these issues... is don’t buy a car, not even an electric one” (16:33).

Notable Quotes

• Vince Beiser: “We need mining. We have absolutely got to get our hands on more of these metals in order to pull off the energy transition” (05:11).

• Vince Beiser: “Phytomining... you can use it not only for mining, but also to clean up polluted areas” (12:38).

• Vince Beiser: “There is no one single silver bullet that's going to save us all. It's going to take lots and lots and lots of different solutions” (16:33).

Conclusion

This episode of The New Yorker Radio Hour offers a nuanced exploration of the critical role rare earth metals play in our modern world and the complex interplay between environmental sustainability and technological progress. Vince Beiser and Elizabeth Kolbert provide insightful perspectives on how the United States can navigate the challenges of mining, aiming for a balance that fosters both innovation and ecological responsibility. Listeners are left with a deeper understanding of the implications of mining practices and the collective actions needed to achieve a sustainable future.

Listen to the full episode here or subscribe to The New Yorker Radio Hour wherever you get your podcasts.