Global AI race makes Greenland's critical minerals a tempting target
NBC News • • world
Key Points:
- Greenland possesses the largest rare earth mineral reserves globally with no active mines, making it geopolitically significant for the U.S. amid concerns over reliance on China for critical minerals used in high-tech industries.
- Despite its vast mineral wealth, including rare earth elements, germanium, and gallium, experts express skepticism about the economic viability of mining in Greenland due to low mineral concentrations, harsh conditions, and infrastructure challenges.
- The U.S. government and lawmakers emphasize national security and critical mineral access as key reasons for interest in Greenland, while also pursuing domestic rare earth initiatives such as a $2.5 billion strategic reserve and public-private partnerships to reduce dependence on Chinese supply chains.
- Greenland currently operates only two active mines, with development hindered by
