Alta Resource Technologies has developed a groundbreaking method to extract rare earth metals from electronic waste, a process that could alleviate U.S. reliance on Chinese supplies. The company utilizes specially designed proteins instead of toxic chemicals, enhancing efficiency and selectivity. With a recent $5.1 million seed funding round led by DCVC and Voyager Ventures, Alta aims to build a pilot-scale plant this year. The U.S. Department of Defense views securing these elements as crucial for national security, and Alta's innovation may help meet these needs while reducing environmental harm.