First magnet recycling plant is boost for Brum

THE University of Birmingham has unveiled a pioneering West Midlands-based facility for the separation and recycling of magnets, a move set to decrease the UK's dependence on imported 'rare earth' metals.

- KATY HALLAM

MP Chris McDonald is shown the technology by Dr Vicky Mann

Rare earth magnets are among the crucial critical minerals that underpin contemporary technology and are essential components in wind turbines, electric vehicles, medical equipment, pumps, robotics and electronics.

As the uptake of low-carbon technologies quickens, demand for them will only grow, making them vital to the UK's modern industrial strategy.

The new Birmingham facility for recycling rare earth magnets has now been launched by Chris McDonald MP, Minister for Industry in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the Department for Business and Trade.