Australian mining giant Rio Tinto faced backlash over its lithium project in Serbia, with critics accusing the company and the government of lacking transparency. The controversy stems from fears about the environmental and health impact of the planned mine in western Serbia, which holds a significant reserve of lithium crucial for electric vehicle battery production.
In response to the outcry, Rio Tinto released an environmental impact report on Thursday, aiming to address concerns and reset the terms of the debate. The company refuted claims of potential harm to water resources, soil, biodiversity, air quality, and human health, labeling them as part of a misinformation campaign.
The report outlined measures to mitigate environmental risks, including the use of high-tech landfill systems and multi-layer linings to prevent groundwater contamination. Additionally, Rio Tinto pledged to establish a “high-quality forest” to compensate for the planned removal of vegetation.
Despite the protests and government intervention to halt the project in 2022, Serbia signed a letter of intent with the European Commission in September 2023 for a strategic partnership in batteries and raw materials. Prime Minister Milos Vucevic emphasized the importance of discussing all development projects, including those related to lithium.
Rio Tinto estimates that the Jadar lithium reserves could yield substantial amounts of lithium carbonate, boron acid, and sodium sulfate annually. The company’s efforts to address environmental concerns and promote sustainable practices will be crucial in resolving the ongoing controversy surrounding the project.
