Green Biotech Path for Rare Earth Purification Using Shewanella oneidensis

American scientists at Cornell University explored a greener route for purifying rare earth metals by engineering the microbe Shewanella oneidensis to enrich these elements. The approach centers on using a modified bacterium to extract rare earths from ore without relying on harsh acids and solvents, offering a potentially eco friendly alternative to conventional processing. The work appeared in Scientific Reports and emphasizes a path toward more sustainable mineral purification.