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A new resource reality for electronics
Electronic brands selling smartphones/ laptops, essentially all modern tech, are highly reliant on China as the world’s global rare earths and critical raw materials producer. For instance, rare earths enable HD graphics & indium is essential for the touch screen.
However, as China says no to pollution & yes to a its own high tech future, risks are high and serious questions who will supply the world are being raised.
On top of this, current brand strategies like increasing use of critical raw materials, ultra low recycling rates (<1% rare earth recycling rate) and build-in obsolescence compound these risks. “Smart” brands are not being smart and need to wake up to the new resource reality. Explore more in the Big Picture or get on top of recent articles in The Latest.
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