Brazil Launches Landmark In-Situ Trial for Rare Earth Mining

Brazilian Critical Minerals (BCM) has launched a field trial for in-situ recovery (ISR) mining at its Ema REE project, aiming to extract rare earth elements with minimal surface disturbance. ISR involves injecting leaching solutions into the ore body, a method seen as both environmentally and economically promising. This initiative supports Brazil’s ambition to become a major supplier of critical minerals, with backing from a R$5 billion fund and the U.S.-led Minerals Security Partnership. The project is part of a broader national strategy to reduce reliance on traditional mining and attract sustainable foreign investment.