This sustainable leaching approach enables safer extraction of rare earth elements (REEs) from ion-adsorption clays. Using biodegradable organic acids instead of harsh chemicals, it selectively dissolves REEs under mild conditions while reducing toxic by-products. The process delivers more than 25% higher efficiency than conventional methods and supports urban mining and greener recovery from diverse feedstocks. Scalable and adaptable, it provides a cleaner pathway for REE producers and recyclers, helping to power the green and digital transition