日本发现巨型稀土矿，可供人类使用730年，为什么迟迟不开采？

Core Insights - The global competition for mineral resources, particularly rare earth elements, is intensifying as countries seek new sources to reshape their economic landscapes [1][3] - The strategic value of rare earths is highlighted, with Japan's reliance on imports from China prompting a search for alternative sources like the rare earth deposits in Minami-Torishima [3][12] Group 1: Rare Earth Resources - Minami-Torishima has gained attention due to its potential rare earth mineral reserves, which are crucial for high-tech industries, military applications, and energy development [2][3] - The rare earth resources in Minami-Torishima are estimated to meet global demand for 730 years, making it a significant focus for international stakeholders [3] Group 2: Technical and Cost Challenges - The extraction of rare earths from Minami-Torishima faces severe technical challenges due to its deep-sea location, with depths reaching 5,400 meters, exceeding the capabilities of current deep-sea exploration equipment [6] - The cost of extracting rare earths is prohibitively high, requiring extensive mining of hundreds of tons of ore to obtain just one gram of rare earth minerals [6] Group 3: Environmental and Social Impacts - Deep-sea mining poses environmental risks, including potential metal pollution that could harm marine ecosystems and fisheries, leading to significant economic losses [8] - The high-risk nature of deep-sea operations increases insurance and rescue costs, necessitating meticulous planning and substantial safety measures [8] Group 4: Logistical and Administrative Challenges - The development of Minami-Torishima involves complex logistics and administrative hurdles, including high transportation costs and project delays due to weather conditions [10] - Coordination with fishing communities is essential, as there are concerns about the impact of mining on marine life and local livelihoods [10] Group 5: International Cooperation and Market Dynamics - Japan's plans for small-scale exploratory mining depend on international collaboration, as global rare earth distribution is uneven, with significant reserves concentrated in Asia [11] - The lack of a developed deep-sea mining industry in the U.S. and Europe limits large-scale project implementation, leaving many initiatives in limbo [11] Group 6: Investment Risks and Policy Changes - The Minami-Torishima rare earth development project faces substantial investment risks, with high initial costs and uncertain returns deterring potential investors [12] - Fluctuations in international energy prices and stringent environmental regulations complicate the project's initiation and execution [12]