A $1.5 trillion-valued lithium deposit has been discovered along the Nevada-Oregon boundary in the United States, potentially the world's largest reserve of the metal.
The lithium deposit is crucial for renewable energy storage systems and electric vehicles, offering a chance for the U.S. to reduce reliance on imported lithium and advance clean energy initiatives.
The mining project at Thacker Pass, a site of cultural significance to Indigenous communities, faces concerns about environmental impacts, water pollution, and legal disputes over BLM's approval.
Efforts have been made to address citizen concerns, including a Community Benefits Agreement, yet protests continue, highlighting the complex balance between meeting energy demands and preserving Indigenous rights and ecosystems.