Overcoming Catch-22 for rare earth metals in green transition: Solutions in electrical machine manufacturing

The emphasis of modern society on environmental sustainability is accompanied by a lesser-known paradox. Rare earth permanent magnet machines play an essential role in renewable energy conversion and green transportation, critical sectors of the green transition. However, the mining and processing of rare earth metals required for these machines is energy-intensive and has significant environmental impacts. As a result, the increased use of rare earth permanent magnets to mitigate ecological concerns may lead to further environmental degradation. This paper presents a comprehensive literature review addressing this Catch-22 trap by surveying the main solutions to reduce the need for newly mined and processed rare earth materials. A special focus is set on the approaches applicable in this sense in the field of electrical machines required for the sustainable development of society. • Highlights the significance of rare earth magnets in sustainable development. • Explores the paradox of using rare earth magnets in green technologies despite environmental impacts from extraction. • Discusses the need for legislation and sustainable strategies, like circular economy, to mitigate rare earth production risks. • Reviews modern technical solutions aimed at reducing reliance on rare earth permanent magnets in electrical machines.