#Lithium Mining

[reasonsforhope]

Green energy is in its heyday. 

Renewable energy sources now account for 22% of the nation’s electricity, and solar has skyrocketed eight times over in the last decade. This spring in California, wind, water, and solar power energy sources exceeded expectations, accounting for an average of 61.5 percent of the state's electricity demand across 52 days. 

But green energy has a lithium problem. Lithium batteries control more than 90% of the global grid battery storage market. 

That’s not just cell phones, laptops, electric toothbrushes, and tools. Scooters, e-bikes, hybrids, and electric vehicles all rely on rechargeable lithium batteries to get going. 

Fortunately, this past week, Natron Energy launched its first-ever commercial-scale production of sodium-ion batteries in the U.S. 

“Sodium-ion batteries offer a unique alternative to lithium-ion, with higher power, faster recharge, longer lifecycle and a completely safe and stable chemistry,” said Colin Wessells — Natron Founder and Co-CEO — at the kick-off event in Michigan. 

The new sodium-ion batteries charge and discharge at rates 10 times faster than lithium-ion, with an estimated lifespan of 50,000 cycles.

Wessells said that using sodium as a primary mineral alternative eliminates industry-wide issues of worker negligence, geopolitical disruption, and the “questionable environmental impacts” inextricably linked to lithium mining. 

“The electrification of our economy is dependent on the development and production of new, innovative energy storage solutions,” Wessells said. 

Why are sodium batteries a better alternative to lithium?

The birth and death cycle of lithium is shadowed in environmental destruction. The process of extracting lithium pollutes the water, air, and soil, and when it’s eventually discarded, the flammable batteries are prone to bursting into flames and burning out in landfills. 

There’s also a human cost. Lithium-ion materials like cobalt and nickel are not only harder to source and procure, but their supply chains are also overwhelmingly attributed to hazardous working conditions and child labor law violations. 

Sodium, on the other hand, is estimated to be 1,000 times more abundant in the earth’s crust than lithium. 

“Unlike lithium, sodium can be produced from an abundant material: salt,” engineer Casey Crownhart wrote ​​in the MIT Technology Review. “Because the raw ingredients are cheap and widely available, there’s potential for sodium-ion batteries to be significantly less expensive than their lithium-ion counterparts if more companies start making more of them.”

What will these batteries be used for?

Right now, Natron has its focus set on AI models and data storage centers, which consume hefty amounts of energy. In 2023, the MIT Technology Review reported that one AI model can emit more than 626,00 pounds of carbon dioxide equivalent. 

“We expect our battery solutions will be used to power the explosive growth in data centers used for Artificial Intelligence,” said Wendell Brooks, co-CEO of Natron. 

“With the start of commercial-scale production here in Michigan, we are well-positioned to capitalize on the growing demand for efficient, safe, and reliable battery energy storage.”

The fast-charging energy alternative also has limitless potential on a consumer level, and Natron is eying telecommunications and EV fast-charging once it begins servicing AI data storage centers in June. 

On a larger scale, sodium-ion batteries could radically change the manufacturing and production sectors — from housing energy to lower electricity costs in warehouses, to charging backup stations and powering electric vehicles, trucks, forklifts, and so on. 

“I founded Natron because we saw climate change as the defining problem of our time,” Wessells said. “We believe batteries have a role to play.”

-via GoodGoodGood, May 3, 2024

--

Note: I wanted to make sure this was legit (scientifically and in general), and I'm happy to report that it really is! x, x, x, x

[rjzimmerman]

Excerpt from this story from Grist:

One of the things Ka-Voka Jackson, the cultural resources director of the Hualapai Nation, most appreciates about Ha’Kamwe’ is its peacefulness. Located on a former ranch in western Arizona, the hot spring is framed by rolling desert hills. Though trucks may sometimes drive down a nearby dirt road, it’s mostly quiet. That serenity is an important part of Hualapai cultural practices that have taken place here for millennia, from gathering plants to holding ceremonies.

“When we visit and we look across the landscape, that’s the same landscape that our ancestors looked at and that our ancestors lived in, and so we hold a deep connection with the integrity of that landscape,” Jackson said.

But amid the green energy boom, Ha’Kamwe’ is threatened by lithium exploration by the Australia-based company Arizona Lithium, or AZL, and these days, peace seems elusive. Already, the mining company has drilled approximately 50 exploratory wells near the hot springs, disturbing the tribe’s cultural practices and threatening the aquifer. Since 2021, when High Country News first covered the threat that this drilling poses to Hualapai religious practices, the Bureau of Land Management, or BLM, has signed off on even more drilling near Ha’Kamwe’. This July, the BLM approved AZL’s plan to bore approximately 130 more wells near the hot spring, reaching more than 300 feet deep and surrounding the hot spring on three sides. AZL will construct drill pads sites, roads, and other support infrastructure as it surveys the area further for a potential open-pit lithium mine.

On August 8, the Hualapai Nation sued the BLM and the Department of the Interior. According to the lawsuit, the agencies violated multiple laws, including the National Environmental Policy Act and the National Historic Preservation Act, in approving this new phase of exploratory mining. Since September, AZL has been under a temporary restraining order to prevent further drilling.

Now, a district judge in Phoenix is deciding whether to grant a preliminary injunction to stop further lithium exploration for the duration of the court case. U.S. District Judge Diane J. Humetewa heard the request for a preliminary junction on September 16. Until her decision, the temporary restraining order will remain in place. As of press time, a decision had not been made.

If the judge does not grant the injunction, Jackson said, “it would interfere with our ability to hold ceremony and just experience a place as Hualapai people on that land. We want the [drilling] ban, because that would allow us to continue with our lawsuit against the Bureau of Land Management, without having to worry about further damage to the site.”

[jangillman]

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Joey Gilbert (@joeygilbertnv)

[reasoningdaily]

‘Cobalt Red: How the Blood of the Congo Powers Our Lives’ w/ Siddharth Kara

From smartphones to electric vehicles, all lithium-ion rechargeable batteries made today require cobalt, a unique mineral that is almost exclusively mined in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Siddharth Kara, author of Cobalt Red: How the Blood of the Congo Powers Our Lives, joins the show to explain the immense toll taken on the people and environment of the Democratic Republic of the Congo by cobalt mining and the numerous layers of multinational supply chains that serve to erode accountability for the absolute exploitation for absolute profit.

[rightnewshindi]

पाकिस्तान का मास्टरस्ट्रोक: अमेरिका-चीन को एक मंच पर लाकर बलूचिस्तान की खनिज संपदा से भरेगा खजाना!

Pakistan News: पाकिस्तान ने एक अनोखा दांव खेलते हुए अपने कट्टर प्रतिद्वंद्वि��ों अमेरिका और चीन को एक साथ इस्लामाबाद में ला खड़ा किया है। मौका है “पाकिस्तान खनिज निवेश मंच 2025” का, जिसकी शुरुआत 8 अप्रैल 2025 को हुई। इस शिखर सम्मेलन में अमेरिका, चीन और सऊदी अरब के प्रतिनिधिमंडल शामिल हुए हैं। पाकिस्तान का मकसद अपनी विशाल खनिज संपदा, खासकर तांबा, सोना और लिथियम, को दुनिया के सामने लाना और अरबों…

[metalmanauto]

Top-tier supplier of EV components and metal fabrication

[semcoinfratechworld]

Sustainable Strategies to Overcome Environmental Challenges in Lithium Mining

As the global demand for electric vehicles and renewable energy storage surges, lithium mining has become pivotal in powering the green energy revolution. However, this surge brings forth significant environmental challenges that necessitate immediate attention.

Environmental Impacts of Lithium Mining

Water Usage and Contamination

Lithium extraction is notably water-intensive, especially in arid regions. Traditional evaporation methods consume approximately 1.9 million liters of water per metric ton of lithium, primarily sourced from undrinkable brine. In contrast, chemical extraction methods require significant freshwater, potentially impacting local water supplies. This extensive water usage can lead to groundwater depletion and contamination, adversely affecting local communities and ecosystems.

Carbon Emissions

The energy-intensive nature of lithium extraction contributes to substantial greenhouse gas emissions. For instance, hard rock mining methods, such as those employed in Australia and China, involve open-pit mining and roasting using fossil fuels, leading to significant carbon emissions.

Land Degradation and Habitat Destruction

Open-pit mining practices result in significant land degradation, leading to the destruction of natural habitats and ecosystems. Removing vegetation can cause soil erosion and biodiversity loss, disrupting local wildlife and plant species.

Strategies for Sustainable Lithium Mining

To mitigate these environmental challenges, the following sustainable strategies can be implemented:

Adoption of Sustainable Mining Practices

Implementing sustainable mining practices can significantly reduce the environmental footprint of lithium extraction. This includes utilizing renewable energy sources for mining operations, adopting closed-loop water systems to minimize water usage, and employing advanced technologies to reduce emissions.

Development of Low-Carbon Extraction Methods

Innovations such as direct lithium extraction in deep geothermal plants offer a low-carbon alternative to traditional methods. This approach not only reduces greenhouse gas emissions but also provides a sustainable source of lithium, making geothermal plants cost-competitive in energy systems.

Recycling and Reuse of Lithium-Ion Batteries

Promoting the recycling and reuse of lithium-ion batteries can alleviate the demand for new lithium mining. Effective recycling processes can recover valuable materials, reducing the need for virgin resource extraction and minimizing environmental impacts.

Conclusion

While lithium mining is essential for advancing clean energy technologies, it is imperative to address its environmental challenges through sustainable practices. By adopting innovative extraction methods, implementing responsible mining practices, and promoting recycling, we can minimize the environmental impact and pave the way for a more sustainable future.

[bettery-machine]

What to Do When Your Car Battery Dies: 3 Easy Solutions

Many drivers have experienced the frustration of a dead car battery, especially during colder months or after extended periods of inactivity. According to maintenance experts at 4S shops, regular care and attention are essential to prevent unexpected battery failures.

Signs of a Dying Battery

To avoid being caught off guard by a dead battery, pay attention to these warning signs from your vehicle:

Weak or Unresponsive Starter: If the starter motor struggles or fails to engage, the battery may be low on power.

Dim Headlights: Headlights that appear noticeably dimmer than usual could indicate a depleted battery.

Weak or Silent Horn: A reduced or non-functioning horn is another common symptom of low battery power.

If you notice any of these issues, check your battery’s condition as soon as possible.

Daily Maintenance Tips: Extending Battery Life

Good driving habits can significantly extend your car battery’s lifespan. Experts recommend:

Avoid Prolonged Use of Electronics: Do not use headlights or listen to the radio for long periods when the engine is off.

Minimize Power Usage During Idle: If parked for a long time, turn off unnecessary electrical devices such as interior and exterior lights, audio systems, and navigation.

Regularly inspecting your battery’s condition is also crucial, particularly as it nears the end of its lifespan.

Emergency Solutions: How to Handle a Dead Battery

Even with proper maintenance, a battery can fail unexpectedly. Here are three effective ways to handle the situation:

Push-Start the Car Push-starting is a common emergency method but is not suitable for all vehicles, especially those with automatic transmissions. It can cause wear on the engine and clutch, so use it sparingly and only as a last resort.

Use a Jumper Cable To avoid being stranded, keep a jumper cable in your car. Follow these steps to connect it correctly:

Attach the positive terminal of the dead battery to the positive terminal of the rescue car battery.

Connect the negative terminal of the rescue battery to a metal part of the dead car’s engine compartment (grounding point).

Start the rescue car and increase its engine speed slightly. Allow 5 minutes for the battery to charge. Once done, disconnect the cables in reverse order.

Call for Professional Assistance The safest and most reliable method is to contact a rescue service. They can provide temporary charging or replace the battery if necessary.

Expert Reminder: Keep Track of Battery Lifespan

The typical lifespan of a car battery is 2-3 years. Beyond this period, its performance may decline significantly. To avoid potential hazards, consider replacing your battery as it approaches the end of its life.

[reasonsforhope]

"Sodium-ion batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage are moving toward the mainstream. Wider use of these batteries could lead to lower costs, less fire risk and less need for lithium, cobalt and nickel.

On Nov. 18, CATL, the world’s largest battery manufacturer, announced its second-generation sodium-ion battery, mass production of which would begin in 2027. The China-based company said the new battery has an energy density of 200 watt-hours per kilogram, which is an increase from 160 watt-hours per kilogram for the previous generation that launched in 2021. Higher energy density in an EV battery translates into more driving range.

On Nov. 21, a consortium of seven U.S. national laboratories announced a new initiative in which they would spend $50 million to foster collaboration to accelerate the development of sodium-ion batteries. The partnership is led by Argonne National Laboratory in the Chicago area.

The two announcements are part of a larger shift as governments, researchers and companies look for alternatives to lithium-ion batteries, the dominant technology for EVs and energy storage.

For now, there are no passenger cars or trucks sold in the United States that use sodium-ion batteries. Some sodium-ion models are available in China and countries that import vehicles from China. 

“The reason we’re pursuing this is very simple,” said Venkat Srinivasan, a battery scientist at Argonne and the director of the new collaboration. “It’s because the huge demand in lithium-ion batteries has meant that we have a supply-chain constraint.

“We have a problem with cobalt. We have a problem with nickel,” he said, naming two of the metals often used in lithium-ion batteries.

Cobalt, nickel and lithium carry a variety of concerns, including the environmental damage of mining. [Note: Which is massive, and so are the human rights issues associated with lithium mining, which involves horrible conditions and is exacerbating conflict and civil wars in the Democratic Republic of Congo.] ...

In contrast, a sodium-ion battery relies on an element—sodium—that you can find in table salt and ocean water...

Also, a sodium-ion battery has much lower risk of fire. When lithium-ion batteries sustain damage, it can lead to “thermal runaway,” which triggers a dangerous and toxic fire.

The process of manufacturing sodium-ion batteries is similar to that of lithium-ion batteries, or at least similar enough that companies can shift existing assembly lines without having to spend heavily on retooling.

But sodium-ion batteries have some disadvantages. The big one is low energy density compared to lithium-ion. As a result, an EV running on a sodium-ion battery will go fewer miles per charge than a lithium-ion battery of the same size...

The national labs’ initiative has a five-year timeline, with a goal of developing sodium-ion batteries with energy densities that match or exceed those of today’s iron phosphate-based lithium-ion batteries. Researchers would do this by finding various efficiencies in design and materials.

The project is happening alongside the labs’ ongoing work to develop and improve other kinds of batteries.

Lithium-ion batteries dominate today’s market...

However, sodium-ion battery production is growing, and is projected to reach 140 gigawatt-hours by 2030, about 13 times its current level, according to Benchmark. Lithium-ion production also is projected to nearly triple by 2030.

“The key market driver for sodium-ion batteries is their potential to be cost competitive with lithium-ion batteries,” said Catherine Peake, an analyst for Benchmark...

Most of the push by battery companies to build sodium-ion systems is happening in China, but some of it is happening in other markets, including a plan by California-based Natron Energy to open its first large plant in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. Natron made its announcement about the $1.4 billion project in August and has not given a timeline for when the plant would be online.

Meanwhile, researchers and companies continue working on other battery technologies.

I asked Srinivasan how sodium-ion batteries fit into this larger picture. He said sodium-ion will likely gain market share over the next few years as an alternative to lithium-ion batteries.

Near the end of the decade, solid-state batteries will begin to become available, which would allow for higher energy densities and longer driving ranges. Solid-state batteries use a solid electrolyte instead of a liquid or gel. The electrolyte is the substance through which ions move as they go from side to side during charging and discharging.

The technologies can coexist in the market, Srinivasan said.

He thinks solid-state batteries will initially be most common in high-end models and popular with people who want the longest possible ranges.

He expects that sodium-ion batteries will be more common in low-cost EVs for people who live in cities or suburbs and don’t place a high premium on driving range.

“It will not be a fringe player,” he said, about sodium-ion. “It will actually be a fast-growing segment.”"

-via Inside Climate News, December 6, 2024

[mathewmartin1]

7 Key Facts About Lithium - The Metal Powering Our Future

Lithium is becoming one of the most valuable elements of the modern age. Known for its role in energy storage, this lightweight metal is at the core of innovations in batteries, medicine, and even aerospace technology. Lithium is shaping industries and influencing sustainable energy solutions with its increasing demand and varied applications.

What is Lithium?

Lithium is a soft, silver-white metal that belongs to the alkali group on the periodic table. Its chemical symbol is Li, and it is the lightest metal and the least dense solid element. The metal's reactivity and electrochemical properties make it a sought-after resource in various industries.

Some notable characteristics of lithium include:

Atomic Number: 3

Melting Point: 180.5°C

Boiling Point: 1342°C

Because of its unique properties, lithium is indispensable in energy storage and many advanced technologies.

Why is Lithium Important?

The growing focus on renewable energy and electric vehicles has spotlighted lithium. Its ability to store energy efficiently makes it an essential component of rechargeable batteries, especially lithium-ion batteries, which power everything from smartphones to electric cars.

According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), global demand for lithium is expected to increase 40 times by 2040. Its significance isn't just limited to batteries—it plays a crucial role in several fields, including:

Medical Applications: Used in treatments for mental health disorders like bipolar disorder.

Aerospace: Lightweight properties make it ideal for advanced materials.

Greener Technology: A key player in reducing carbon emissions.

The History of Lithium

Lithium, discovered in 1817 by Swedish chemist Johan August Arfvedson, was initially isolated from the mineral petalite. However, its full potential became apparent not until the mid-20th century, especially in medicine and battery technology.

By the 1970s, scientists recognized its importance in energy storage, developing the first commercial lithium-ion battery in 1991.

How is Lithium Mined?

Mining lithium involves extracting it from two primary sources:

Hard Rock Deposits: These deposits are found in regions like Australia.

Brine Pools: Salty water deposits, mainly in South America's "Lithium Triangle," which includes Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina.

Environmental Impact: While lithium mining is critical for green energy, it has raised concerns about water usage and land degradation. Innovations in sustainable mining practices aim to address these challenges.

Lithium in Batteries: Powering the World

Rechargeable lithium-ion batteries are at the heart of the modern technological revolution. They are used in:

Smartphones and laptops

Electric vehicles (EVs)

Grid energy storage systems

Compared to other battery types, lithium-ion batteries are:

Lighter and more compact

Longer-lasting with higher energy density

Faster to charge

Quote: "The transition to clean energy is impossible without advancements in lithium battery technology," says energy expert Dr. Sarah Lee.

Lithium's Role in Renewable Energy

Renewable energy sources like solar and wind are intermittent, meaning they don't consistently produce power. Lithium batteries solve this issue by storing excess energy for later use.

Some breakthroughs include:

Tesla's large-scale battery storage systems

Grid-level energy storage in California, powering over 15,000 homes

Fact: Studies show that lithium battery storage can improve grid efficiency by up to 30%.

Medical Applications of Lithium

Beyond energy, lithium has significant medical uses. It has been a lifesaver for patients with bipolar disorder by stabilizing mood swings. Low doses are also being studied for their potential to improve brain health and combat neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

Despite its benefits, proper medical supervision is necessary when using lithium treatments, as imbalances can lead to side effects.

Global Lithium Reserves and Production

The significant players in lithium production include:

Australia: The top producer, accounting for nearly half of the world's lithium supply.

Chile and Argentina: Rich in brine deposits, collectively contributing around 40%.

China: A growing force in lithium mining and processing.

Current global reserves are estimated at 21 million metric tons, with ongoing exploration expanding these figures annually.

Challenges in the Lithium Industry

While demand for lithium is skyrocketing, several challenges remain:

Environmental Concerns: Excessive water use and habitat disruption.

Supply Chain: Meeting the demand while maintaining ethical sourcing.

Geopolitical Tensions: Competition between nations over lithium resources.

Developing recycling technologies and alternative extraction methods can mitigate these issues.

Future Prospects of Lithium

The future of lithium looks bright, especially as electric vehicles become mainstream. Innovations in battery recycling aim to create a circular economy where old batteries are repurposed to reduce reliance on mining.

Researchers are also exploring solid-state batteries that could outperform current lithium-ion models.

Fact: By 2030, it's estimated that 125 million electric vehicles will be on the road, most powered by lithium-based batteries.

Environmental Benefits of Lithium

Switching to lithium-powered technologies can significantly reduce carbon emissions. For example, electric vehicles produce up to 50% less CO2 over their lifespan than traditional gasoline cars.

Additionally, integrating lithium batteries into solar farms enables clean energy storage, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Lithium Alternatives: Are There Any?

While lithium dominates the battery market, researchers are exploring alternatives like sodium-ion and magnesium batteries. However, these technologies are still in their infancy and must match lithium's energy density or efficiency.

How Lithium is Shaping Everyday Life

Lithium is a silent yet indispensable part of daily life, powering everything from smartphones to enabling clean transportation. Its contributions to renewable energy and medical science highlight its versatility in building a sustainable future.

FAQs

What is lithium used for?

Lithium is used in rechargeable batteries, mental health treatments, aerospace materials, and renewable energy storage.

Why is lithium important for electric vehicles?

Lithium's high energy density makes it ideal for creating long-lasting and lightweight batteries for EVs.

How is lithium extracted?

Lithium is mined from hard rock deposits and brine pools. Significant sources include Australia and South America.

Is lithium environmentally friendly?

While lithium has benefits for clean energy, its mining process can cause environmental challenges like water depletion.

What are alternatives to lithium batteries?

Sodium-ion and magnesium batteries are being explored as alternatives, but they lack the efficiency of lithium.

Which countries lead in lithium production?

Australia, Chile, and Argentina are the largest producers, with China playing a significant role in processing.

Conclusion

Lithium is more than just a metal—it's a gateway to a cleaner, more sustainable future. Its pivotal role in battery technology and renewable energy makes it essential for combating climate change and advancing technology. However, addressing environmental concerns and supply chain challenges will be crucial as global demand soars.

[rjzimmerman]

U.S. approves massive lithium mine in Nevada, overriding protests. (Washington Post)

Excerpt from this Washington Post story:

The Biden administration Thursday approved a massive lithium and boron mine in southern Nevada, overriding some environmentalists’ protests that it could drive an endangered wildflower to extinction.

The final approval of the Rhyolite Ridge Lithium-Boron Project underscores the tensions between two of President Joe Biden’s top environmental priorities: accelerating the nation’s transition to clean energy and combating a global biodiversity crisis.

Ask your climate questions. With the help of generative Al, we'll try to deliver answers based on our published reporting.

In a final permit issued Thursday afternoon, the Interior Department’s Bureau of Land Management found that the mine would not jeopardize the survival of Tiehm’s buckwheat, a rare, cream-colored wildflower that grows only on lithium- and boron-rich soil in Esmeralda County, Nevada. The agency noted that Australia-based Ioneer, the company behind the project, plans to protect roughly 719 acres designated as critical habitat for the wildflower.

“The Rhyolite Ridge lithium mine project is essential to advancing the clean energy transition and powering the economy of the future,” Laura Daniel-Davis, acting deputy interior secretary, said in a statement. “This project and the process we have undertaken demonstrates that we can pursue responsible critical mineral development here in the United States, while protecting the health of our public lands and resources.”

But Patrick Donnelly, Great Basin director at the Center for Biological Diversity, said the conservation group plans to challenge the final permit in court. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service cited mining as the greatest threat to Tiehm’s buckwheat’s survival when the agency listed it under the Endangered Species Act in 2022; Donnelly said the suit will argue that the BLM violated the law in allowing the new mining operation to move forward.

[studiolevez]

The Fight Against Open Cast Lithium Mining: A Call to Action . Mining companies have acquired huge swathes of Portugal's most scenic land in the beautiful Guarda countryside, home to the Serra da Estrela Natural Park. Luckily the park is protected land but it's in danger of becoming an oasis in a desert landscape as its surrounding mountain scenery is being ravaged by bulldozers in the search for lithium.

In recent years, the demand for lithium has surged due to its crucial role in the production of batteries for electric vehicles, smartphones, and renewable energy storage systems. While the benefits of lithium are undeniable, the environmental and social costs associated with open cast lithium mining cannot be overlooked.

Despite prosecutors currently investigating alleged corruption into lithium mining deals, the destruction of Portugal’s countryside continues. The latest proposal is to extend the Alvarrões mine near the village of Gonçalo from 6.5 hectares to 32 hectares. It will be an environmental disaster for the area. Trees will be razed to the ground, habitats for endangered species destroyed and water courses will be in danger of being polluted. The site is next to the Zezere river which supplies water to the half a million inhabitants of Lisbon.

The region has already seen enormous environmental damage with the destruction of over 27,000 hectares of forest in the 2022 wildfires. Lithium mining will further exacerbate this environmental damage.

The local residents have just 30 days to protest the expansion. A petition against the lithium mine expansion has been started at https://peticaopublica.com/pview.aspx?pi=Alvarroes#google_vignette

As global citizens, we must raise our voices against this destructive practice and advocate for more sustainable and ethical methods of lithium extraction. One of the most glaring issues with open cast lithium mining is the extensive environmental destruction it causes. Open cast, or open-pit, mining involves removing vast quantities of earth to access the lithium-rich ore beneath. This process results in significant deforestation, habitat loss, and soil erosion. Forests, which play a vital role in carbon sequestration and biodiversity preservation, are being decimated to make way for lithium mines. The loss of these ecosystems not only contributes to climate change but also endangers countless species of flora and fauna. The economic benefits promised by mining companies rarely materialize for local communities. Instead, the profits are often funneled to multinational corporations and distant investors, leaving local populations to deal with the environmental fallout. The jobs created by the mining industry are typically low-paying and short-term, offering little in the way of long-term economic stability. Once the lithium reserves are depleted, mining companies often abandon the area, leaving behind a scarred landscape and a community in economic disarray. Health issues are another significant concern. The pollution generated by open cast mining can lead to respiratory problems, skin diseases, and other health issues for local residents. The dust and particulate matter released during the mining process can travel long distances, affecting not only those in the immediate vicinity of the mine but also communities further afield.

Links: Petition against the expansion of the Alvarrões mine https://peticaopublica.com/pview.aspx?pi=Alvarroes#google_vignette Facebook group - Living Forest Action https://www.facebook.com/florestavivaguarda Video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJ7fDM5Drx8

[hellofromuranus]

In less than half a day, you could walk all the way around the 10 acres the endemic species Tiehm’s buckwheat calls home in the Silver Peak Range of Nevada, where the small wildflower with yellow pom-poms grows in part thanks to the soil beneath it being filled with lithium and boron.

Those two minerals have attracted the attention of Ioneer LLC, a mining company, which if permitted to begin construction would destroy 22 percent of Tiehm’s buckwheat’s critical habit while degrading 100 percent of the flower’s range via dust from construction, the disruption of pollinating insects and the introduction of more invasive plant species to the area, according to a report sent to the Bureau of Land Management by environmental groups and scientists fighting to save the species from the proposed mine. The BLM is overseeing the permitting of the project given its location on public lands owned by the federal government.

[jangillman]

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Darren James Sauer (@djs3113)

[minersdata]

Invest in Lithium Hard Rock Mining with Miners Data

Dive into the lucrative world of lithium hard rock mining with Miners Data at your side. Our platform equips investors with invaluable insights, enabling informed decision-making in this dynamic sector. Leverage our wealth of data analytics and historical drilling results to uncover promising opportunities and navigate potential risks with confidence. Whether you're a seasoned investor or just entering the market, harness the power of Miners Data to unlock the full potential of lithium hard rock mining investments. Read more : 

Explore the most comprehensive database of drill results: https://www.minersdata.com/product/

Refer our blogs to invest better  : 

Nearology in Mining: Debunking the Myth and Unveiling the Potential 

Assessing Jurisdiction Risk When Analysing Drill Results: A Crucial Factor in Mining Exploration 

Unearthing the Future of Power: Lithium Hard Rock vs Brine Mining 

[ravnlghtft]

It is sad that the USA doesn’t have mining capability here at home.