Lithium Critical to the Energy Transition Is Coming at the Expense of Water

July 18, 2024: Inside Climate News: Energy Transition Is Coming at the Expense of Water.

A new paper highlights the environmental impacts of lithium extraction and use, crucial for batteries powering electric vehicles and storing renewable energy. Lithium mining and processing, essential due to its superior charge-holding capacity, require significant water use, potentially depleting and contaminating local supplies.

With rising lithium demand driven by the shift from fossil fuels, researchers are examining its effects on water resources. The study, titled “Lithium and water: Hydrosocial impacts across the life cycle of energy storage,” serves as a guide for community members, activists, and researchers, emphasizing that lithium production impacts water quantity and quality, particularly affecting climate-stressed communities.

James J.A. Blair, the study’s lead author, stresses the importance of considering water supply issues in areas already facing climate challenges when promoting industries supporting the energy transition.

Read the full article here.