Why Is Sweden Digging Europe’s Biggest Hole?

Kiruna mine in Sweden is the world’s largest underground iron mine It is known as.

However, this mine was destroyed by a discovery made earlier this year. On its way to becoming the most important mine in Europe is progressing. So why?

A new rare earth deposit called Per Geijer has been discovered in the Kiruna mine.

Bed, Contains 1.3 million tons of rare earth elements and is located just two kilometers from the existing underground complex. It can be said that the discovery has the potential to reduce Europe’s dependence on China and strengthen the green transformation of the union.

Rare earth elements are vital to today’s most advanced technologies. such as semiconductors, high-power magnets and alloys Many technological products are based on these elements.

Electric vehicles and green technologies are also increasing the demand for elements. However rare earth elements, It’s actually not that rare in nature. How Does? The main problem is that these elements are mined in a small number of places.

Currently, the European Union imports 98% of rare earth elements from China.

china, world 70% of rare earth production and retains 85% of its processing capacity. This leaves Europe dependent on China for rare earth elements.

The discovery made in Kiruna could help Europe achieve its goal of self-sufficiency and dependence on China can reduce it.

But not everything is rosy.

Per Geijer deposits, rare earth elements It contains only 0.18%. That is, well below the 5.85% concentration in China’s largest mine. Low concentration means the mining process will be longer and more costly.

Additionally, the existing Kiruna mine is causing serious problems at the surface. Surface soil subsidence, It required relocating parts of Kiruna town to another location.

new mine, environmental and social costs will bring. The lands around the Kiruna mine are the historical lands of the Sami people.

Mining activities have reduced reindeer grazing areas and blocked migration routes. Opening of a new mine, Seems to make the problems worse stands.

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