Core Viewpoint - A research team from Flinders University has developed a new method for extracting gold from ores and electronic waste without using harmful chemicals like cyanide and mercury, providing a safer and more environmentally friendly solution to the global electronic waste problem and promoting "urban mining" [1][4]. Group 1: Global Electronic Waste Issue - The global electronic waste production reached approximately 62 million tons in 2022, an increase of 82% compared to 2010, and is expected to rise to 82 million tons by 2030 [3]. - Less than 25% of precious metals, including gold, are currently being effectively recovered from electronic waste, leading to significant resource wastage and environmental burdens [3]. Group 2: Traditional Gold Extraction Methods - Traditional gold extraction methods pose significant environmental risks, with large mining companies using cyanide, which can cause severe pollution if mishandled, and small-scale miners relying on mercury, contributing to global mercury pollution [3]. Group 3: New Extraction Method - The new extraction method utilizes trichloroisocyanuric acid as a base material, which is widely used in water treatment and pool cleaning, ensuring safety [4]. - The process involves adding halide catalysts to saltwater to efficiently dissolve gold from ores or electronic waste, followed by selective extraction using polysulfide polymers made from petroleum byproducts [4]. - The method allows for the recycling of chemicals and water used in the process, significantly reducing raw material consumption and waste emissions [4]. Group 4: Industrialization Challenges - The research team acknowledges that industrial-scale implementation of this new technology faces several challenges, including scaling up polymer production and optimizing recovery processes while reducing costs [5]. - Successful implementation of this method could significantly advance the "urban mining" industry, reducing reliance on primary gold mining and minimizing environmental damage from traditional mining activities [5].