Greenland’s Minerals: Treasure Trove or Unrealizable Rocks?

Resource Type
RTM Publication
Publish Date
04/09/2025
Author
David Reay
Topic
Managing Emerging Technologies
Associated Event
Publication

Greenland holds some of the world’s richest deposits of rare earth elements, particularly at the Kvanefjeld and Maaniitsok sites. These minerals—critical for wind turbines, electric vehicles, and military tech—are currently dominated by China. The U.S., especially under Trump, has viewed Greenland as a strategic asset, both for its Arctic military positioning and its mineral potential. Renewed interest in acquiring Greenland reflects a broader aim to secure rare earths, reduce reliance on China, and strengthen U.S. economic and defense capabilities in an increasingly tech-driven world.