Rare metals (e.g., indium, germanium, rare earths) are vital for electronics, renewable energy tech, and advanced manufacturing. Recycling matters because:
It preserves scarce resources (many rare metals are geologically limited and hard to mine).
It cuts environmental harm: Recycling reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 95% compared to mining, which often involves toxic chemicals and deforestation.
It strengthens supply chain security, reducing reliance on limited global sources.