Rare-earth elements are widely distributed around our planet but found only in low concentrations that are difficult to extract and separate from ore. China controls nearly 90% of these elements that are produced and processed world-wide–-a supply chain and security situation that many consider unstable.
Demand is rising rapidly for many types of metals, along with an increase in e-waste containing valuable and hazardous materials. Knowledgeable researchers believe that metals already in use, in infrastructure, or in waste can make up much, if not most, of the metals that we will need. Opening new mines should be a last resort.
By the 1800s, intensive agriculture had seriously depleted soil fertility along the East Coast of the United States. Guano mined from Pacific islands offshore from Peru became a prized imported fertilizer. Competition for that resource led to an 1856 law directing the country to secure access to guano by claiming sovereignty over unclaimed territories.
Los Angeles is famous for many reasons, although the enormous oil and gas deposits beneath the city are unfamiliar to many. According to researcher estimates, the Los Angeles Basin just might contain more oil per unit volume of rock than any other sedimentary basin on Earth.
In the Andes Mountains today, water managers are using both ancient and modern approaches to improve supplies of this vital resource. Novel methods, including those based on Indigenous knowledge, are needed to help meet the challenges of population growth and a warming climate.
Ancient indigenous people used seven so-called “Metals of Antiquity”; today, our complex technologies require a much longer list of essential metals. Many of these are mined in poorer countries, even though deposits of these important ores are found in the United States.
Geothermal energy deep underground is available almost everywhere on our planet. With financial support from climate-conscious tech companies, clever engineers are rapidly developing enhanced geothermal power projects that can access this resource. A recent trip to Yellowstone National Park with llama support provided the inspiration for me to learn more about this subject.
Oracles—those who speak from worlds unseen—have a long and colorful history. Explanations for their proclamations have puzzled investigators for many years. Now, evidence shows that at least some ancient oracles likely were under the influence of a variety of poisonous substances.
Reducing the massive amount of carbon dioxide heating our planet will rely in part on making alternative energy sources competitive with fossil fuels. Demand for electricity is surging worldwide—and simpler and safer nuclear reactors can provide carbon-free power around the clock.
Llamas, iconic animals of the Andes Mountains, have been the trusted companions of humans for thousands of years. Llamas are superb pack animals and excel at moving on rough, rocky, and steep terrain. I’m happy to report my good fortune in recently taking an overnight camping trip with Wilderness Ridge Trail Llamas on the edge of Capitol Reef National Park. It was a fabulous trip!
