Baker’s yeast may provide a greener way to recover rare earth elements

Researchers at Osaka Metropolitan University have developed a novel method using sulfated baker’s yeast (S-yeast) to recover rare earth elements and other metals such as copper, zinc, cadmium, and lead from waste solutions. This modified yeast adsorbs copper 2.3 times more effectively than previously studied phosphate-modified yeast and allows for metal desorption and reuse through hydrochloric acid treatment, enabling a recyclable recovery cycle. This approach offers a potentially scalable, environmentally friendly alternative to traditional, energy-intensive metal extraction and recycling methods. The innovation addresses critical challenges in rare earth element supply, which is currently dominated by China and vulnerable to geopolitical tensions. Efficient recovery technologies like S-yeast could reduce dependency on overseas sources, stabilize supply chains, and support the growing demand for electronics and green technologies. The research, published in Environmental Research, represents a promising step toward sustainable, cost-effective recycling of rare earth metals from electronic and industrial waste, potentially transforming e-waste into a renewable resource while mitigating environmental