Going green in this modern world carries a pretty significant price tag. Much has already been made of the high cost of alternative forms of energy - wind and solar - not to mention the cost of lessening mankind's "carbon footprint" on the planet, with things such as hybrid cars. One common factor with wind, solar and hybrids is the use of little talked about rare earth elements (REEs). These elements are key ingredients in the manufacture of wind turbines and hybrid cars. Batteries for Toyota's Prius hybrid require 10 to 15 kg (22 to 33 lbs) of lanthanum and 1 kg (2.2 lbs) of neodymium, a major component in the alloy for permanent magnets that are used in the car.
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