Are hybrid cars doing more harm than good?

Hybrid cars continue to be top sellers in this country and abroad. Toyota for example holds 70% of the market. The idea behind owning such an automobile is that you are eco-friendly; doing your part to help the environment by driving a fuel efficient machine that runs on both conventional gasoline and battery engines. However, an article published on reuters.com warns that the supply of rare earth metals used in the manufacturing of the hybrid engine and battery will diminish within years if steps are not taken to seek alternatives. In other words, attempting to lower our dependence on gasoline will result in the depletion of rare earth metals. In addition, further destruction of land resources may well develop as mines are created to harvest the necessary elements. Is it worth it? For now I guess time will tell. But in my opinion, I don't think we can afford to wait to find out.