Copper and Lithium Mining Impact: Rising Demand Poses New Threats to Native Communities
August 23, 2024 - The global demand for copper and lithium is surging, driven by the transition to renewable energy and the proliferation of electric vehicles (EVs). However, this increased mining activity is posing significant threats to Native communities around the world, raising concerns about environmental and social impacts.
Copper and lithium are essential components in the production of batteries for EVs and energy storage systems. As countries strive to meet ambitious climate goals, the need for these metals has skyrocketed. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), the demand for lithium could grow over 40 times by 2040, while the demand for copper is expected to more than double1.
Despite the benefits of transitioning to cleaner energy, the extraction of these metals comes at a high cost. Mining operations often lead to environmental degradation, including deforestation, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity. These activities disproportionately affect Native communities, who rely on their land for sustenance and cultural practices.
In South America, the lithium-rich salt flats of the Atacama Desert in Chile have become a focal point for mining companies. The extraction process involves pumping large amounts of groundwater, which has led to the depletion of local water sources. This has had a devastating impact on the Indigenous Atacameño people, who depend on these water sources for agriculture and daily living2.
Similarly, in the United States, copper mining projects have sparked controversy and resistance from Native American tribes. The proposed Resolution Copper mine in Arizona, which would be one of the largest copper mines in the world, threatens sacred sites and the water supply of the San Carlos Apache Tribe. Despite promises of economic benefits and job creation, the tribe remains steadfast in its opposition, citing the irreversible damage to their cultural heritage and environment3.
The environmental impact of mining for clean energy metals is not limited to local ecosystems. The process of extracting and processing these metals releases significant amounts of greenhouse gases, contributing to climate change. A report by the MIT Climate Portal highlights that while mining for clean energy metals is less harmful than fossil fuel extraction, it still poses substantial environmental risks4.
Efforts to mitigate these impacts are underway, with some mining companies adopting more sustainable practices. For instance, initiatives to recycle lithium from used batteries are gaining traction, reducing the need for new mining operations. Additionally, advancements in mining technology aim to minimize environmental damage and improve resource efficiency.
However, experts argue that more needs to be done to protect Native communities and the environment. Thea Riofrancos, an associate professor of political science at Providence College, emphasizes the importance of reimagining transportation policies to reduce reliance on personal vehicles. “It’ll actually cut emissions faster if we don’t try to replicate the car-dependent transportation system as we move into a new energy system,” she says5.
Governments and international organizations are also being urged to enforce stricter regulations on mining activities and ensure that the rights of Indigenous peoples are respected. The United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP) provides a framework for protecting these communities, but its implementation remains inconsistent.
As the world continues to transition to renewable energy, it is crucial to balance the demand for critical metals with the need to protect vulnerable communities and the environment. By prioritizing sustainable practices and respecting Indigenous rights, it is possible to achieve a greener future without compromising the well-being of those most affected by mining activities.
For more information on the socio-environmental impacts of mining, visit the official websites of the International Energy Agency and the United Nations.
1: MIT Climate Portal 2: CBC Radio 3: PBS 4: BBC 5: CBC Radio