Lithium ion battery technology isn't new, it became mainstream in the early 2000s. Replacing NiCad cadmium and lead based batteries in many products from children's toys, laptops and mobile phones to power tools. Mainly in smaller powered devices, this new type of battery provided more power and for longer.

Demand for lithium has since steadily increased until it soared in line with the uptake in electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing. The huge batteries in each of the millions of new EVs has created an equally large increase in demand for the constructive materials, including Lithium. The metal is a key component of the batteries powering most EVs.

Geological surveys and test drilling suggest Portugal has one of the largest deposits of Lithium in the world , certainly the largest in Europe. Now demanding a higher price than ever, companies are eager to create an open cast mine to extract millions of tonnes of rock, earth and ore.

Portugal Has One Of The Largest Deposits Of Lithium In The World

In a quiet corner of North Portugal, near the village of Covas do Barroso, big foreign mining companies are planning to cut down trees and rip a big hole in this rather nice farmland region.

Map location of the large lithium mine near Covas do Barroso, Portugal

To save the environment, the environment around the quiet village of Covas do Barroso in Portugal may be destroyed.

 

Initially, the area could supply enough lithium for up to one million EV batteries a year. In time further development and investment would double that.

Enough Lithium For Up To One Million EV Batteries A Year.

The infrastructure would need to be improved, better roads, to handle the heavy mine traffic.

Workers and their families would need housing, schools, shops, restaurants, medical centres and much more. The area would be quickly changed forevermore.

Many locals are fearful for the local environment, wildlife, drinking water, air quality and their general way of life.

With the government on side, the mining company is edging towards planning consent and full approval, but local action groups are determined to fight. Court action may follow.

About The Author
Jane Duncan
Chewells Contributor

Jane is passionate about the environment, she is our main contributor for the renewable industry blogs. She... »

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