Rare earth protection plan
State Council circular aims to stop over-exploitation of valuable resources and promote sustainable production
On May 19, the State Council released a document to promote the healthy development of China's rare earth industry.
It contains 22 items that impose stricter policies on mining and waste emission standards, so as to protect valuable rare earth resources and the environment; further complete related laws and regulations to curb illegal mining and smuggling; implement mining and production control; decrease the consumption rate of rare earth reserves; consolidate the industry; phase out inefficient companies with high energy consumption and pollution; promote further innovation to improve mining, separation, smelting and application techniques; and harmonize the rare earth industry with local economies and social development.
