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Podcast: In-depth News Features | NHK WORLD-JAPAN News
Episode: Japanese firms eye cleaner minerals industry
Description: Chances are, you're reading this on a smartphone or PC. These gadgets are an essential part of daily life — but not without immense pain for some people. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is a major source of rare minerals used in all manner of modern devices. The industry is rife with human rights abuses, and many companies simply turn a blind eye in the name of profit. At least two in Japan are finding innovative ways to end the suffering.