Massive Lithium Deposit Found in Nevada Supervolcano, But Mining Plan Faces Backlash Over Environmental and Cultural Concerns
-
Geologists discovered what may be the world's largest lithium deposit in an ancient supervolcano along the Nevada-Oregon border, potentially containing $1.48 trillion worth of the metal.
-
The lithium was found in clay throughout the 28-mile McDermitt Caldera that last erupted 16 million years ago.
-
Canada-based Lithium Americas Corp. plans to start mining in 2026, but faces criticism over environmental impacts and claims the land is sacred to Native Americans.
-
Lithium is critical for batteries in phones, electric vehicles, etc. and the find could greatly boost U.S. supplies, reducing dependence on China.
-
While beneficial economically, lithium mining uses lots of water and can cause ecological damage, sparking opposition from local tribes who say it will harm sacred lands.