Archive · 25 May 2025
Myanmar's Rare Earth Mining Boom Fuels Environmental Concerns
Myanmar's mountains are being mined for rare earth elements, which are used in things like electric cars.
Chemicals are poured into the mountains, which damages the environment.
The local people and the environment are suffering because of it.
China is buying a lot of these minerals, and some international companies are using them.
Activists want the mining to be done more carefully so it does less harm and benefits the local people.
Myanmar's rare earth mining uses in-situ leaching, injecting chemicals into mountains to extract minerals.
The process damages the environment and poses health risks to workers and residents.
China is a major buyer of Myanmar's rare earths, used in products like electric vehicles.
Mining is happening in a region with ongoing conflict between the KIO and forces aligned with the central government.
Activists demand more responsible mining practices and community involvement.
- Who
- Chinese investors, Myanmar miners, the KIO, environmental activists, and international businesses.
- What
- Extraction of rare earth elements using in-situ leaching, causing environmental damage.
- When
- Extraction has continued since 2021 despite prior export bans.
- Where
- Northern Kachin state, Myanmar.
- Why
- To meet the growing global demand for rare earth elements used in modern technology and green energy.
Environmentalists & Local Community
Chinese Investors & Businesses
Environmental Impact
Environmentalists & Local Community
Mining practices are causing severe environmental damage and health risks.
Chinese Investors & Businesses
Mining is economically beneficial despite environmental drawbacks.
Distribution of Benefits
Environmentalists & Local Community
The local communities should benefit from the mining industry.
Chinese Investors & Businesses
Current financial and regulatory practices serve other economic interests.
International Oversight
Environmentalists & Local Community
International community should demand responsible sourcing of rare earth minerals.
Chinese Investors & Businesses
Current global supply chains are the status quo.
- Rare Earth Value
- $1.4 billion in 2023
- Extraction Method
- In-situ leaching
- Major Buyer
- China
- Key Elements
- Dysprosium
- Environmental Concerns
- Chemical pollution, habitat destruction, and health risks.
- Conflict Zone
- Kachin State