Efforts to Green Lithium Extraction Face Scrutiny
Direct lithium extraction is being promoted as a way to reduce mining impacts in South America.
Mining companies are developing new technologies to extract lithium from the region's salt flats with lower environmental impacts.
Experts warn that the technology may not be ready for large-scale deployment and could worsen freshwater depletion.
The Lithium Triangle
The region, spanning Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile, holds over half of the world's known lithium reserves.
- Lithium is found in salty brine beneath the salt flats.
- The area is among the driest places on Earth.
Author's summary: Lithium extraction faces scrutiny over water use and environmental impacts.