Baotou is set to host the Baotou Rare Earths Cup Science and Technology Innovation Competition -- with the launch ceremony held at Baotou Rare Earth Research and Development Center of the Chinese Academy of Sciences on June 14, according to local media.

Organizers said the competition will make full use of the advantages and technological innovation resources of the Baotou Rare Earth Research and Development Center of CAS, and combine the resources of 10 of its research institutes, as well as those of 15 top Chinese universities and leading domestic venture capital institutions.

The competition aims to get investment and science and technology innovation projects to settle in Baotou city, to boost regional economic growth.

The launch ceremony for the Baotou Rare Earths Cup Science and Technology Innovation Competition is held at Baotou Rare Earth Research and Development Center of the Chinese Academy of Sciences on June 14. [Photo/northnews.cn]

Cutting-edge lighting -- using rare earths elements -- is used in an artificial climate laboratory operated by the Baotou Rare Earth Research and Development Center of CAS in Baotou, to boost the growth of fruit and vegetables. [Photo/northnews.cn]