Rio Tinto received an „environmental go” on the Jadar lithium Project

Environmental go

Rio Tinto has informed that it received a new environmental report for its Jadar lithium in Serbia in Serbia. The project was halted in 2022 due to significant protests. Studies confirm that the $2.4 billion project can meet the highest environmental standards. This is significant information because Jadar’s deposit potentially covers 90% of Europe’s current lithium needs and positions Rio Tinto as a leading lithium producer.

Lithium, essential for batteries in electric vehicles (EVs) and mobile devices, is a critical material for major economies. Over six and a half years of research show that the Jadar project can be safely realized, ensuring environmental protection.

Renew dialogue

Marijanti Babic, a Rio Tonto representative stated on Thursday that the main aim of publishing report is to “renew a public dialogue”. “These studies give an opportunity to local community and all interested parties to see for themselves what had been done so far.”

Historic opportunity

Serbian authorities are open to renewed discussions, emphasizing the importance of expert opinions and public dialogue. This project represents a historic opportunity to balance natural resource exploitation with environmental preservation.

Miloš Vučević has stated: I am expecting the answer from experts – if experts say no, then it is no, but they have to be aware of their responsibility”. Moreover, he added “I believe it is possible to exploit natural resources and preserve nature’s wealth and people above all. I think this (lithium project) is a historical chance.”