Perspective Chapter: Environmental Impact of Modern Permanent Magnets

Abstract

Modern permanent magnets, such as neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) and samarium-cobalt (SmCo), have revolutionized many industries due to their high magnetic strength and stability. However, the production and disposal of modern permanent magnets have significant environmental impacts that must be addressed. To minimize these impacts, it is important to reduce our reliance on rare earth elements by developing alternative materials or improving recycling technologies. Because when modern permanent magnets reach the end of their useful life, they are often disposed of in landfills or incinerated. This can lead to the leaching of toxic metals into the environment or the release of harmful gases into the atmosphere. So, proper disposal methods should be implemented to prevent contamination of soil, water sources, and air. This chapter will explore the potential environmental impacts of modern permanent magnets, including their production, use, and disposal. It will also provide recommendations for minimizing these impacts.

1. Introduction

Permanent magnets are found in a wide range of products, from small electronic devices to the largest wind turbines [1]. As their name suggests, permanent magnets are made from materials that can be magnetized and remain magnetized for long periods. The most common permanent magnet materials are iron, nickel, and cobalt. Permanent magnets are an essential component of many modern technologies, and their impact on the environment is both direct and indirect. Direct impacts occur when magnets are manufactured, used, or disposed of. Indirect impacts occur because of the electricity generated by magnet-powered devices [2]. The manufacture of permanent magnets generally relies on mining, which can have a significant impact on the environment [3]. For example, iron mining releases large amounts of dust and other particulates into the air, which can lead to respiratory problems for nearby residents. In addition, the disposal of magnet materials can be difficult, as they are not biodegradable and often contain rare earth metals, which are difficult to recycle. The use of permanent magnets also has environmental impacts. Magnets are often used in electric motors, which can be a significant source of air pollution [4].

2. Recycling and disposal options of modern permanent magnets

In recent years, researchers have been exploring new ways to make permanent magnets that are more environmentally friendly. These approaches include using alternative materials, such as iron and cobalt, and developing new manufacturing processes that reduce waste and energy consumption [5, 6]. By adopting these new methods, we can create sustainable permanent magnets that support our technological advances without damage. New ways to reduce environmental damage from permanent magnets include:

2.1 Protecting the environment with recycling rare earth elements

One way to reduce the environmental impact of permanent magnets is to recycle rare earth elements from old or discarded magnets. This process involves extracting and purifying the rare earth elements from the magnet, which can then be used to create new magnets. Electronic waste, also known as e-waste, may contain rare earth elements [7]. These elements are used in the production of electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops, and televisions. When these devices are disposed of improperly, the rare earth elements they contain can end up in landfills or incinerators. This not only wastes valuable resources but also poses a risk to the environment and human health. Recycling e-waste is one way to recover rare earth elements and reduce the environmental impact of their disposal. However, the process of extracting these elements from e-waste can be challenging and expensive due to their low concentration and complex composition. Therefore, it is important to design electronic devices with recycling in mind and develop more efficient methods for recovering rare earth elements from e-waste [8]. There are several methods of rare earth element (REE) recycling, including:

1. Solvent extraction: This method involves dissolving the REE-containing material in a solvent and then extracting the REEs using another solvent. This process is commonly used in the recycling of neodymium and dysprosium from magnets [9].

2. Ion exchange: In this method, the REEs are separated from other metals by exchanging ions with a resin. This process is commonly used in the recycling of yttrium and europium from fluorescent lamps [10].

3. Precipitation: This method involves adding a chemical to the REE-containing material to precipitate out the REEs. The precipitate is then collected and processed further to extract the individual REEs [11].

4. Pyrometallurgy: This method involves heating the REE-containing material to high temperatures to separate out the individual REEs. This process is commonly used in the recycling of cerium and lanthanum from catalytic converters [12].

5. Hydrometallurgy: In this method, the REE-containing material is dissolved in an acid or base solution, and then the individual REEs are separated using various chemical processes [13].

6. Biometallurgy: This method involves using microorganisms to extract and recover REEs from waste materials such as electronic waste or mine tailings [14].

In general, these methods can help reduce our dependence on mining for new sources of rare earth elements and promote sustainable practices in the industry. Recycled rare earth elements can be used in a variety of applications, including:

1. Electronics: Rare earth elements are used in the production of electronic devices such as smartphones, laptops, and televisions. Recycling these elements can help reduce the environmental impact of electronic waste [15]. Table 1 compares some properties of permanent magnetic materials used in electrical machines. Modern permanent magnets, such as neodymium-iron-boron (NdFeB) and samarium-cobalt (SmCo), have revolutionized many industries due to their high magnetic strength and stability. However, the production and disposal of these magnets have significant environmental impacts [16, 17].

2. Renewable energy: Rare earth elements are used in the production of wind turbines, solar panels, and electric vehicle batteries. Recycling these elements can help reduce the reliance on mining for new materials [18].

3. Medical equipment: Rare earth elements are used in medical imaging equipment such as MRI machines and X-ray machines. Recycling these elements can help reduce the cost of medical equipment and improve access to healthcare [19].

4. Defense industry: Rare earth elements are used in the production of defense equipment such as missiles, radar systems, and night vision goggles. Recycling these elements can help reduce the dependence on foreign sources for these critical materials [20].

5. Lighting: Rare earth elements are used in the production of energy-efficient lighting such as light emitting diode (LED) bulbs. Recycling these elements can help reduce energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions [21].

6. Overall, recycling rare earth elements is an important step toward creating a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future.

Material	Flux density (T)	Coercivity (kA/m)	Maximum energy product (kJ/m^3)	Curie temperature (°C)
NdFeB	1.1–1.4	750–2000	200–440	310–400
SmCo	0.8–1.1	600–2000	120–240	720–800
AlNiCo	0.6–1.4	40–140	10–80	700–860
Ferrite	0.2–0.5	100–300	10–40	450

Table 1.

Compares some properties of permanent magnetic materials.

2.1.1 The method used in the manufacture of rare earth magnets

The elements used to make magnets are not always iron. Instead, magnets are usually made of alloys, including some rare metals. The most common of these rare metals is neodymium. Neodymium magnets are the strongest of the rare earth magnets. Other rare metals used in magnet production include dysprosium and samarium. Cobalt is another metal used in the production of magnets, as shown in Table 2 [22, 23].

Rare metals	Formula	Industry description permanent magnets
Neodymium (Nd)	Nd2 Fe14B	Strong magnetic & low cost
Praseodymium (Pr)	Pr2Fe14B	Magnetic strength & durability
Dysprosium (Dy)	DyFe2 & (Nd,Dy)2Fe14B	High thermal tolerance
Terbium (Tb)	TbFe2 and TbDyFe	High magnetic strength
Samarium (Sm)	SmCo5 and Sm2Co17	High magnetic energy
Europium (Eu)	EuFe2B2	Corrosion resistance
Gadolinium (Gd)	GdCo5 and Gd2Co17	High magnetic energy
Holmium (Ho)	HoCo5 and Ho2Co17	High magnetic synergy
Yttrium (Y)	Y2Co14B	High-performance magnets

Table 2.

List of rare earth elements used to make magnets arranged in order of importance.

Different methods are used to manufacture rare earth magnets, but one of the most common ones is called powder metallurgy. This method involves the following steps, as shown in Figure 1.

Figure 1.

The method used in the manufacture of rare earth magnets.

The raw materials used in the manufacture of rare earth magnets are neodymium, iron, and boron. These materials are firstly crushed into small particles and then mixed together in a certain proportion. The mixed raw materials are then melted in a vacuum furnace at high temperatures to form a molten alloy. The molten alloy is then cast into a mold to form a solid block of material. The solid mass of the material is then ground into a fine powder using a ball mill. Followed by compacting the fine powder into the desired shape using a hydraulic press. Next comes the sintering process, where the pressed powder is heated in a vacuum or in an inert atmosphere to a high temperature (about 1000°C), allowing some of the elements to melt and bond together. This process is called liquid phase sintering and gives the magnet its final strength and density. The sintered magnet is then ground, sliced, or cut into its final shape. This can be done with diamond tools or wire saws. Finally, the magnet is coated with a protective layer to prevent corrosion and improve its performance. This method allows for precise control over the composition and microstructure of the magnet, resulting in magnets with high magnetic properties and excellent performance characteristics [24].

2.1.2 Challenges in recycling rare earth elements

There are many challenges associated with recycling rare earth elements. One major hurdle is that the amount of REE used in final products ranges from less than a milligram to several kilograms [25]. This means that assembly and disassembly of REE-containing devices can be difficult. In addition, earth-recycling methods require rare conventional hazardous chemicals such as hydrochloric acid, a lot of heat, and, therefore, a lot of energy [26].

2.2 Protecting the environment with biodegradable magnets

While magnetic materials have many beneficial applications, they also come with environmental concerns. Traditional magnetic materials, such as neodymium and samarium-cobalt, are not biodegradable and can have negative long-term effects on the environment if not disposed of properly. Biodegradable magnets have emerged as a promising alternative that can mitigate these environmental concerns [27, 28]. These materials are typically made from biodegradable polymers, such as polylactic acid or cellulose, mixed with magnetic particles such as iron oxide or ferrite. The advantages of biodegradable magnets include their ability to degrade naturally over time, reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills or oceans [29]. They also have lower toxicity levels and can be produced using more sustainable manufacturing processes, making them a more environmentally friendly option. In General, the use of biodegradable magnets has the potential to improve the sustainability of various industries that rely on magnetic materials, such as electronics, automotive, and medical industries.

2.2.1 Advantages and disadvantages of using biodegradable magnets

Biodegradable magnets have several advantages over traditional magnetic materials when it comes to protecting the environment.

1. It can degrade naturally over time without releasing any hazardous materials into the environment. This means that they can be safely disposed of without causing any long-term harm to ecosystems or human health.

2. Biodegradable magnets are generally made from renewable resources such as plant-based polymers or starch-based plastics that are less energy-intensive than traditional synthetic plastics or metals used in permanent magnet production processes [30].

3. Biodegradable magnets can be recycled more easily than traditional magnetic materials due to their ability to break down naturally over time without releasing any hazardous materials into the environment [31].

However, there are also some drawbacks associated with the use of degradable magnets that must be considered before determining whether they are suitable for a particular application. First, biodegradable magnets tend to have lower magnetic properties than conventional permanent magnetic materials, which may limit their usefulness in some applications that require high levels of magnetism (for example, medical imaging) [32]. Second, biodegradable magnets tend to be more expensive than traditional permanent magnet materials due to their higher production costs and shorter lives (i.e., they will need to be replaced more frequently). Finally, there is still a lot of research to be done before this material can be widely adopted by industry due to its relatively new nature and lack of commercial availability now (although this is likely to change in the future).

There has been considerable research conducted on biodegradable magnets in recent years with a focus on improving their magnetic properties while maintaining their environmental benefits (i.e., breaking down naturally without releasing any hazardous substances). For example, researchers have developed new types of polymers which can be used as binders for magnetic particles, which improve both strength and flexibility while still allowing them to break down naturally over time [33, 34]. Magnetic particles are a type of nanomaterial that can be used to improve the strength and flexibility of materials while still allowing them to break down naturally over time. These particles are typically composed of iron oxide, which is a magnetic material that can be manipulated by an external magnetic field. When these particles are added to a material, they create a network of tiny magnetic fields that interact with each other, increasing the strength and flexibility of the material [35, 36]. Additionally, these particles are biodegradable and will break down naturally over time, making them an environmentally friendly option for improving materials. Additionally, researchers have developed new types of starch-based plastics, which have been found to possess superior mechanical properties compared with traditional synthetic plastics while still being capable of breaking down naturally [37].

2.3 Reduce environmental damage with magnetic polymers

Magnetic polymers are a type of polymer that contains magnetic particles within their structure. These particles can be manipulated by an external magnetic field, making them useful in a variety of applications, including environmental remediation. One potential use for magnetic polymers is in reducing environmental damage caused by oil spills. When an oil spill occurs, it can have devastating effects on the surrounding ecosystem [38, 39]. The oil can coat the feathers of birds and fur of mammals, making it difficult for them to regulate their body temperature and leading to hypothermia. It can also contaminate water sources, killing fish, and other aquatic life. Magnetic polymers could be used to help clean up these spills by attracting and removing the oil from the water. The magnetic particles within the polymer would bind to the oil molecules, allowing them to be easily removed from the water using a magnet. This would reduce the amount of time and resources needed for cleanup efforts and minimize the impact on the environment. Another potential use for magnetic polymers is in removing heavy metals from contaminated soil or water. Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium can be toxic to humans and wildlife, causing various health problems. Magnetic polymers could be used to selectively remove these metals from contaminated areas, reducing their impact on the environment [40]. Generally, the use of magnetic polymers has great potential for reducing environmental damage caused by various pollutants. As research continues in this area, we may see more widespread adoption of this technology in environmental remediation efforts [41]. This review article provides an overview of the use of magnetic polymers for environmental remediation, including their synthesis, properties, and applications in the removal of pollutants from water and soil [42]. This paper discusses the synthesis and characterization of magnetic polymer composites and their potential applications in environmental remediation, such as the removal of heavy metals from wastewater [43]. This research paper focuses on the synthesis and characterization of magnetic polymer nanocomposites for environmental applications, including their use in the removal of organic pollutants from water [44]. This study investigates the use of magnetic polymer microspheres for the removal of heavy metals from contaminated water, demonstrating their high efficiency in removing lead ions [45]. This research paper reports on the synthesis and characterization of magnetic polymer nanoparticles for environmental applications, including their use in the removal of organic pollutants from water and soil samples with high efficiency and selectivity. Overall, magnetic polymers represent a promising class of materials with unique properties that have potential applications in various fields.

2.4 Reduce environmental damage with magnetic nanoparticles

Magnetic nanoparticles have emerged as a promising tool for reducing environmental damage. These tiny particles, typically less than 100 nanometers in size, can be engineered to selectively bind to specific pollutants in water or soil [46, 47, 48]. Once bound, the nanoparticles can be easily removed using a magnetic field, leaving behind cleaner water or soil. One example of this technology in action is the use of magnetic nanoparticles to remove heavy metals from contaminated water. Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium are toxic to humans and wildlife and can persist in the environment for decades. Magnetic nanoparticles functionalized with chelating agents can selectively bind to these metals and remove them from water. Another application of magnetic nanoparticles is in the remediation of oil spills. When oil spills occur, they can have devastating effects on marine ecosystems. Magnetic nanoparticles can be used to selectively bind to the oil droplets and then be removed using a magnetic field [49]. This approach is effective in laboratory studies and could potentially be used in real-world oil spill scenarios. Overall, the use of magnetic nanoparticles for environmental remediation shows great promise for reducing environmental damage caused by pollutants such as heavy metals and oil spills [50]. With continued research and development, the unique properties of magnetic nanoparticles make them a promising area of research for a wide range of applications [51].

2.5 Reduce environmental damage with renewable energy sources

Renewable energy sources can be replenished by nature and do not emit greenhouse gases or pollutants into the air [52]. Renewable energy sources include Solar Energy, where solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, which can be used to power homes and businesses. This reduces the need for fossil fuels and helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions [53]. As well as wind Energy, Wind turbines generate electricity by harnessing the power of the wind. This is a clean and renewable energy source that does not produce harmful emissions [54]. In addition, renewable energy sources include hydro Energy; hydroelectric power plants generate electricity by using the force of moving water to turn turbines. This is a clean and renewable energy source that does not produce harmful emissions. Also Geothermal Energy, Geothermal power plants use heat from the earth’s core to generate electricity. This is a clean and renewable source of energy that does not produce any harmful emissions [55]. Finally, Biomass Energy is another renewable source of energy; Biomass refers to organic matter such as wood, crops, or waste that can be burned to generate heat or electricity. This is a renewable source of energy that can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions [56]. Using these renewable energy sources can help reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and minimize environmental damage caused by burning coal, oil, and gas.

2.6 Reduce environmental damage with green manufacturing processes

Green manufacturing processes can play a significant role in reducing environmental damage caused by manufacturing activities. Green manufacturing refers to the use of environmentally sustainable practices in the production of goods. It involves reducing the use of raw materials, water, energy, and other resources and minimizing waste and greenhouse gas emissions [57]. Green manufacturing is a process that reduces environmental damage during the production of goods. This is because manufacturing processes often involve the use of harmful chemicals and materials, and the waste products created by manufacturing can be difficult to dispose of properly. Green manufacturing is a process that seeks to reduce the amount of environmental damage caused by manufacturing [58]. There are several ways in which green manufacturing can be achieved, as shown in Figure 2.

Figure 2.

Green manufacturing process that reduces environmental damage.

One way to reduce the environmental damage caused by manufacturing is to use alternative energy sources to power manufacturing processes, for example, solar, wind, and hydropower to power manufacturing facilities. This reduces the reliance on fossil fuels and helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions [59]. Another way to reduce the environmental damage caused by manufacturing is to use recycled materials in the manufacturing process. This helps to conserve natural resources and reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. In addition, green manufacturing processes involve the use of eco-friendly materials such as biodegradable plastics, recycled paper, and sustainable wood products. This reduces the environmental impact of manufacturing activities by reducing the use of nonrenewable resources [60]. Green manufacturing processes also involve water conservation techniques such as rainwater harvesting, water recycling, and wastewater treatment. This helps to conserve water resources and reduces water pollution [61]. Finally, green manufacturing processes involve the use of energy-efficient equipment such as Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting, high-efficiency motors, and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems. This reduces energy consumption and helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions [62]. In general, green manufacturing processes are essential for reducing environmental damage caused by industrial activities. By adopting these practices, manufacturers can help protect natural resources while also improving their bottom line through reduced costs associated with waste disposal and energy consumption.

2.7 Reduce environmental damage with magnet recycling programs

Magnet recycling programs are an effective way to reduce the environmental damage caused by the disposal of magnets. By implementing magnet recycling programs, these materials can be recovered and reused, reducing the need for new materials to be mined or manufactured. There are several ways that magnet-recycling programs can be implemented.

2.7.1 Magnets can be recycled into new magnets

The recycling of magnets is an excellent way to reduce environmental damage. By recycling magnets, we are able to reuse them in a variety of ways. This not only reduces the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, but it also helps to conserve resources. When magnets are recycled, where old or discarded magnets are broken down into their base materials and then reformed into new magnet products [63] first, they are crushed into smaller pieces. These smaller pieces are then sorted by their magnetic properties. The magnet that is most magnetic is known as the ferrite, while the least magnetic is known as the neodymium. Once the magnets are sorted, they are then cleaned and smelted down. This process helps to reduce waste while conserving resources and energy. A sustainable solution benefits both the environment and the economy [64].

2.7.2 Recycling magnets helps reduce environmental pollution

Magnet recycling is one of the most efficient ways to reduce environmental pollution. Magnets, like most materials, are made up of natural resources. By recycling magnets, we can help reduce pollution and conserve these resources. The process of magnet recycling involves several steps:

1. The magnets are collected from various sources such as electronic waste, motors, generators, and hard drives.

2. The collected magnets are sorted according to their type, size, and composition. After sorting, the magnets are crushed into small pieces and separated from other materials using magnetic separation techniques.

3. The separated magnet pieces are then cleaned and processed to remove any impurities or contaminants.

4. Finally, the purified magnet pieces are melted down and reformed into new magnet products or sold to manufacturers for use in other applications.

The process of recycling magnets is not only efficient in reducing environmental pollution, but it is also cost-effective. By recycling magnets, we can save money on raw materials and on energy costs. In addition, recycling magnets help to create jobs in the recycling industry [65, 66].

3. Environmental regulations of modern permanent magnets

Modern permanent magnets, such as neodymium, samarium-cobalt, and ferrite magnets, are subject to environmental regulations. These regulations aim to minimize the environmental impact of the production, use, and disposal of these magnets.

3.1 The importance of environmental regulations in the production of modern permanent magnets

Typically, the environmental performance of high-performance permanent magnets is better than that of traditional magnets. This is due to the fact that high-performance permanent magnets are more efficient, which results in less energy consumption and lower greenhouse gas emissions during their use [67]. Additionally, high-performance magnets are often made using advanced manufacturing techniques that reduce waste and improve resource efficiency. However, it is important to note that high-performance magnets often contain rare earth elements, which can have a significant environmental impact during their mining and processing. Rare earth elements are often found in low concentrations, which means that a large amount of ore needs to be mined and processed to extract them. This can result in significant environmental damage, including soil erosion, water pollution, and habitat destruction. To mitigate these environmental impacts, efforts are being made to develop more sustainable methods for mining and processing rare earth elements. For example, some companies are exploring the use of more environmentally friendly solvents and reducing the amount of waste generated during processing [68]. Additionally, efforts are being made to recycle rare earth elements [69, 70] from end-of-life products, which can reduce the need for new mining and processing activities. Generally, while high-performance permanent magnets offer better environmental performance than traditional magnets during use, there is still work to be done to address the environmental impacts associated with their production.

3.2 Some environmental regulations of permanent magnets

Permanent magnets are present in many electronic devices, from the speakers in your cell phone to the motors in your car. The Materials Research Society notes, permanent magnets are fundamental to technologies as diverse as electric motors, generators, hard disk drives, medical devices, and magnetic resonance imaging. Permanent magnets are made from a variety of materials, including iron, nickel, cobalt, and rare earth metals. The manufacturing process of permanent magnets can release harmful chemicals and pollutants into the environment. In order to protect the environment and human health, various environmental regulations have been put in place regarding the production of permanent magnets. Some of the key environmental regulations of permanent magnets include the following:

1. Restriction of Hazardous Substances Regulations (RoHS): Permanent magnets may contain hazardous materials, such as lead, mercury, and cadmium, in electronic and electrical equipment that require specific handling and disposal procedures to comply with environmental regulations [71].

2. Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) Regulation: This regulation aims to protect human health and the environment from the risks posed by chemicals. It requires companies to register the chemicals they produce or import and provide information on their properties and uses [72].

3. End-of-life disposal regulations: When permanent magnets reach the end of their useful life, they must be disposed of properly to minimize their impact on the environment. This may involve recycling, repurposing, or proper disposal in a designated landfill [73].

4. Manufacturing regulations: The production process for permanent magnets may involve the use of hazardous materials or emissions that need to be monitored and controlled to comply with environmental regulations [74].

5. Energy efficiency regulations: Permanent magnets are often used in motors and other energy-consuming devices and, therefore, may be subject to energy efficiency regulations that promote the use of more efficient devices to reduce energy consumption and emissions [75].

Both the RoHS and the REACH are important for the environmental protection of permanent magnets. These regulations help to ensure that permanent magnets are produced without the use of hazardous substances. As the world progresses, society is developing new ways to be more environmentally conscious. One way is by modernizing the environmental regulations of permanent magnets. New regulations require manufacturers to use less electricity, create fewer harmful emissions, and recycle magnets more often. This is beneficial for both the environment and the economy. Environmentally friendly practices are not only good for the environment, but they also save money in the end. Overall, it is important to consider the environmental impact of permanent magnets throughout their entire lifecycle, from production to disposal, and to comply with all applicable regulations to minimize their impact on the environment.

4. Recommendations for minimizing environmental impact of modern permanent magnets

1. Reduce the use of rare earth metals: Rare earth metals are essential components in modern permanent magnets, but their extraction and processing have significant environmental impacts. Therefore, reducing the use of rare earth metals in magnet production can help minimize the environmental impact.

2. Increase recycling: Recycling permanent magnets can help reduce the demand for new magnet production and minimize waste generation. Recycling also reduces the need for mining and processing raw materials, which can have significant environmental impacts.

3. Use renewable energy sources: The production of permanent magnets requires a significant amount of energy, which often comes from nonrenewable sources such as coal and oil. Using renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and minimize the environmental impact.

4. Improve manufacturing processes: Modern manufacturing processes can be optimized to reduce waste generation, water usage, and energy consumption. By improving manufacturing processes, it is possible to minimize the environmental impact of permanent magnet production.

5. Develop alternative materials: Researchers are exploring alternative materials that could replace rare earth metals in permanent magnets. Using alternative materials for magnet production, such as biomaterials, can help reduce the environmental impact of modern permanent magnets and could have lower environmental impacts than rare earth metals, which are more sustainable in the end.

6. Promote responsible sourcing: Companies that produce permanent magnets should ensure that they source their raw materials responsibly and ethically. This includes ensuring that mining practices are environmentally sustainable and that workers are treated fairly throughout the supply chain.

7. Efficient use of magnets: The efficient use of magnets can help reduce the amount of energy required for various applications, ultimately reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

8. End-of-life management: Proper end-of-life management of magnets, such as recycling or disposal in an environmentally responsible manner, is crucial for reducing their environmental impact.

9. Monitor compliance: Governments should monitor compliance with environmental regulations through regular inspections, audits, and reporting requirements.

10. Educate consumers: Consumers should be educated about the environmental impact of permanent magnets and encouraged to choose products that are environmentally friendly.

5. Conclusion

In conclusion, the environmental impact of modern permanent magnets is a complex issue that requires careful consideration. While these magnets are essential components in many modern technologies, their production and disposal can have negative impacts on the environment. However, there are several strategies that can be employed to minimize this impact, such as recycling, using alternative materials, adopting sustainable mining practices, efficient use of magnets, and proper end-of-life management. By implementing these strategies, we can minimize the environmental impact of modern permanent magnets. It is important for individuals and industries to be aware of the environmental impact of modern permanent magnets and take steps toward reducing their negative effects and move toward a more sustainable future.

Conflict of interest

“The authors declare no conflict of interest.”