Meteoric Resources (ASX: MEI) has received another critical consent milestone from Brazilian authorities for its Caldeira ionic clay rare earth project. As part of its progression towards commencement of operations at Caldeira, Meteoric has obtained environmental licensing approval to undertake operations within a three-kilometre designated buffer zone. “As one of the worlds highest-grade ionic absorption clay rare earth deposits, the Caldeira project will play a critical role in development of alternative supply chains for rare earth elements,” managing director Stuart Gale said. The company also recently reported “exceptional” rare earth recoveries from test work by Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO)that also covered materials handling and water management of the Caldeira project ionic clays. Highlights included consistent magnet rare earth recoveries of 70% and the the production of MREC with total recoveries of 60% total rare earth oxide and less than 2% impurities.