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https://www.youtube.com/@valls_geoconsultant?sub_confirmation=1 For more videos about geology, geochemistry, AI, and much more, please visit and subscribe for free here: Golden droplets- https://shorturl.at/fetV1 Geovoices- https://tinyurl.com/m23pp4pb News about geology- https://tinyurl.com/3979urhy The sources examine the crucial need for critical mineral resources, including rare earth elements, highlighting their essential function in modern electronics, defense, and energy sectors, alongside the severe environmental and ethical consequences of their production. Official U.S. government policy, largely driven by the Energy Act of 2020, mandates that the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) continuously update the Critical Minerals List (CML) to identify and mitigate supply chain vulnerabilities. To address the challenge of locating these resources, NASA and the USGS have partnered on the Geological Earth Mapping Experiment (GEMx), an initiative using sophisticated airborne hyperspectral imaging—like the AVIRIS and HyTES instruments—to map deposits in the Western United States. Simultaneously, consumer awareness campaigns advocate for political consumption and commodity certification systems as a means for buyers to pressure manufacturers into adopting more sustainable and ethical production practices. Ultimately, the collected texts demonstrate a concerted effort, from the federal research level down to individual purchasing power, to manage the complex economic and environmental risks associated with the global demand for these strategic materials. The bridge between Academy and Industry! P. Geo. Ricardo A Valls, M. Sc. and Geo Gadfly Valls Geoconsultant ORCID ID- https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5421-0914 Scopus Author ID: 7003369619/35335510700 ResearcherID: S-6604-2018 If you like this content, please "buy me a coffee" https://www.buymeacoffee.com/goldendroplets