Unlocking Europe's Largest Rare Earth Elements Deposit
Norway's Geological Survey (NGU) recently unveiled groundbreaking findings at a press conference, highlighting Fensfeltet as Europe's largest known rare earth elements (REE) deposit. Henrik Schiellerup, NGU's Department Director for Resources and Environment, emphasized the significance of this discovery, marking it as a pivotal moment for Norway's mineral potential on both national and international stages.
NGU's extensive mapping efforts confirmed Fensfeltet's vast REE reserves, extending as deep as 468 meters below sea level. Further explorations, conducted in collaboration with regional geologist Sven Dahlgren, suggest potential mineralization reaching depths of at least 1000 meters. This data underscores Norway's emerging role as a key player in the global supply of critical minerals.
Critical Minerals for a Sustainable Future
Rare Earths Norway (REN) echoed NGU's findings, pointing to the strategic importance of REEs in advancing green technologies such as mobile phones, wind turbines, batteries, electric vehicles, and defense equipment. With geopolitical tensions highlighting vulnerabilities in global supply chains, there's growing emphasis on securing local sources and sustainable practices in mineral extraction.
European Union directives underscore this urgency, with Ursula von der Leyen highlighting REEs and lithium as pivotal resources poised to eclipse traditional energy commodities like oil and gas. REN's commitment to advancing sustainable mining practices aligns with EU objectives, aiming to establish resilient supply chains for critical minerals essential to modern industries.
Pioneering Sustainable Mining Practices
In pursuit of Norway's ambition to lead the world in sustainable mineral extraction, Rare Earths Norway is spearheading efforts with their innovative "Invisible Mine" concept. This pioneering approach integrates electrified and autonomous mining technologies with advanced waste management strategies, ensuring maximum resource utilization and minimal environmental impact.
Through extensive research initiatives spanning nearly 20 countries, REN is not only refining mining techniques but also developing cutting-edge mineral processing technologies. By supplying raw materials to international research projects, they are advancing global efforts towards sustainable resource management and reinforcing Norway's vision for a sustainable mineral industry.
