The principal objectives of the study are to examine potentially harmful consequences of element redistribution on the environment and to assess the opportunities for economic byproduct recovery of accessory elements. Attention is focused on mining and processing methods because of the important role of technology in the redistribution and recovery of accessory elements and compounds. The study also points out research needed for improving the understanding of environmental consequences and byproduct potential of large-scale mining activities. A principal reason for the study is the expectation that major increases in domestic production of many mineral commodities will occur, either as a result of changing national policies or actions abroad, which may result in important byproduct recovery. The report does not address health problems that might result from the redistribution of accessory elements, but it does discuss redistribution pathways through which toxic elements may reach the environment, thus providing an alert to potential health hazards.