HERNDON, VA – iNEMI has issued a call for participation in the Rare Earth Metals Assessment and Supply Chain Actions Project.

Participation in this project will provide information on the electronic industry's extensive dependence of REM, and give participants the opportunity to develop strategic programs and projects to reduce the impact of shortages and/or restricted supplies.

iNEMI conducted a survey to assess whether a shortage of rare earth metals would affect the electronics industry in the near term. The results indicate that any disruption in supplies of REM would have a critical negative impact on the industry.

The primary purposes of this project are to gather information related to the probability of a shortage of rare earth metals occurring in the near future; pinpoint when demand will exceed supply, and identify key driving factors.

Goals include driving actions that will increase supply; examining the feasibility of reclamation/recycling efforts; investigating development of alternative materials, and raising awareness on the severity and potential impact of REM supply issues with governmental agencies and industry trade groups.

Ultimately, the project aims to reestablish a viable REM industry in the US; develop REM mining, refining and processing skills, and rebuild and restructure the REM supply chain and infrastructure.

For more information, visit http://www.inemi.org/cms/projects/ese/Rare_Earth_Metals.html.

Sign-up for this project has been extended to Mar. 31.