Efforts to Green Lithium Extraction Face Scrutiny
Direct lithium extraction has been touted as a way to reduce mining impacts in South America.
However, experts warn that it may not be ready for large-scale deployment due to concerns over water use.
- Mining companies are promoting new technologies to extract lithium from salt flats with lower environmental impacts.
- Environmentalists question the readiness of the expensive technology for scale rollout.
- Scientists warn that it could worsen freshwater depletion in the region, necessitating more research.
The "lithium triangle" spanning Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile holds over half of the world's known lithium reserves.
The region's salt flats, among the driest places on Earth, have seen soaring lithium mining driven by EV battery demand.
Author's summary: Lithium extraction faces scrutiny over water use and environmental impacts.