Environmental and legal conditions of rare earth elements

Abstract

To run an efficient and well developed economy, it is necessary to procure materials and elements belonging to four main groups, that is energy resources, organic resources, water and mineral resources. Non-energy resources, including critical raw materials, have limited resource base, significant dispersal of minerals and very limited possible substitution. Those resources include rare earth elements, which set directions for contemporary dynamic development of many industries. With the development of innovative technologies, the demand for essential components has grown. The use of rare earth elements to develop energy-efficient technologies is very promising, especially in wind generators and hybrid cars.