Rare earths recycling partnership is first of many that begins process of a circular economy.

Striving toward a truly circular system in the recovery of rare earth elements, ReElement Technologies Corp. announced a partnership with EDP Renewables North America (EDPR NA) to maximize efficiency and sustainability in recycling neodymium-based permanent magnets from decommissioned wind turbines into magnet-grade REEs.

The collaboration will leverage the wind energy expertise of EDPR NA, which is the world's fourth-largest wind energy producer and top five owner and operator of renewables in North America, and ReElement's advanced critical mineral refining technology for rare earths and critical battery elements.

Utilizing a patented technology developed in partnership with Purdue University, ReElement recovers critical minerals from recycled permanent magnets and lithium-ion batteries, as well as processing ore and coal waste streams, to create low-cost, sustainable, and circular sources of rare earths and battery materials.

The company says its process of recycling permanent magnets is approximately three times more environmentally safe than traditional mining and processing methods such as those used in China.

Recycling rare earths from neodymium-based permanent magnets commonly used in clean energy applications such as wind turbines and electric vehicle motors offers a sustainable and reliable source of these elements for which the U.S. heavily depends on China for its supply.

By recycling these magnets, EDPR NA and ReElement aim to reduce the environmental impact associated with the production and disposal of wind turbine components as well as the primary extraction and common processing methods used today in the production of critical and rare earth minerals.

"We are thrilled to partner with EDPR to address the environmental challenges associated with neodymium-based permanent magnets," said ReElement Technologies Chief Commercial Officer Chris Moorman. "ReElement's critical mineral refining process is a game-changer, providing a sustainable solution for recovering and refining a broad range of critical minerals."

Anticipating the collaboration will set a precedent for responsible and sustainable practices in the renewable energy sector and beyond, EDPR NA and ReElement hopes it will compel other companies to foster a circular system that extends the life cycle of the materials required to fuel the future.

"Our flexibility to refine multiple feedstocks utilizing a smaller, scalable and significantly more environmentally safe method enables us to provide valuable solutions to the supply chain challenges we face today," said Moorman. "Our approach not only facilitates the recycling of wind turbine components but also significantly reduces the environmental footprint. We applaud EDPR NA and are thankful to have this collaborative opportunity to lead the world in delivering real solutions."

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, America is roughly 95% reliant on China for its supply of rare earths. Establishing a domestic supply through recycling offers the first of many steps that can be taken to de-risk supply of clean energy-enabling resources.

"The next generation of the electrified economy relies on responsible practices, and through this partnership, we are collectively setting a new standard for sustainability in the renewable energy sector," finished Moorman.