Global compilation of Rare Earth Element concentrations in biological, sediment and water samples from 1973 to 2023

Over the past 30 years, the significant increasing exploitation of Rare Earth Elements (REEs) for their use in new technologies (e.g. low-carbon energy, multimedia, medicine) has led to their release into the environment. The occurrence of these emerging contaminants in the environment leads to major health and environmental issues. In the last decade, a growing number of studies have observed the presence of anthropogenic REEs in freshwater and marine aquatic organisms. However, limited information is currently available regarding the natural levels of REE concentrations in aquatic organisms. A global understanding of these natural levels is therefore essential to: i) understand the natural biogeochemical cycles of REEs; ii) gain better insights into the risks of exposure associated with anthropogenic REEs; and iii) determine research perspectives by evaluating current knowledge gaps.