"Rare earth" elements (Table 9.1) are important components of many of items and technologies that we rely on -- phones, batteries, embedded computer systems in vehicles, and electronic items, such as televisions, computers, game consoles, and "smart" devices. Name a device or two that you come into contact with in your life that probably contains one or more of the elements listed in the table. In Chapter 9, you learned that most of the rare-earth containing minerals are currently mined outside of the United States, and that the workers who extract and process these minerals often endure unsafe working conditions and low pay.

From an environmental justice perspective (sneak a peek at Chapter 17), suggest a way that the mining and processing of rare-earth elements might be improved. (There are multiple options, try to find one that hasn't been posted yet)