CANBERRA, March 14 (Xinhua) -- A new study from the Australian National University (ANU) highlighted how biological science could revolutionize renewable energy management by leveraging the unique properties of plants.

Researchers found that certain plant species have evolved to utilize rare earth elements (REEs), metals essential to the clean energy transition. The discovery could inspire innovative approaches to energy efficiency, according to the study published on Friday in Plants, People, Planet.

"Plants are masters of finding efficient strategies for managing and transferring energy. Some plants, for example, exhibit enhanced photosynthesis when they can access REEs," said co-author from ANU Caitlin Byrt.

Understanding these processes could lead to advanced photon-harvesting technologies that mimic photosynthesis, Byrt said.

Extracting pure REEs from natural deposits is challenging. However, lead author Samantha McGaughey noted that biological mechanisms for managing REEs have evolved over millions of years to generate new ways of extracting these valuable resources.

"We need to look at developing innovative approaches to use, reuse and recycle critical resources like REEs and copper to ensure we're also minimizing negative impacts on the environment," McGaughey said, adding recycling from waste materials can reduce the need for disruptive mining practices.

Byrt stressed the importance of responsible resource use, ensuring REEs contribute to technologies that enhance community well-being, adding further work in plant science, supported by the Australian Research Council, is expected to help pave the way forward for sustainable use of the resources needed for the clean energy transition. Enditem

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