Semuels, H/ Cough, K. (2023, July 17) Gem Hunters Found the Lithium America Needs. Maine Won’t Let Them Dig It Up. Retrieved January 26, 2024,

from Maine Has the Lithium America Needs, But Won’t Allow Mining | TIME

 

Maine holds the world richest lithium deposit. By 2040, the world will need at least 1.1 million metric tons of lithium annually, so these deposits are needed. It can jumpstart the current administration’s focus on local mining. As the world moves towards alternative energy, resources like lithium are badly needed. However, Maine has some of the strictest mining and water quality standards in the nation. Many residents are against mining due to negative environmental effects felt during the 1960s. This reflects much skepticism that communities have over mining projects. Strict environmental regulations and pushback from communities keeps mining operations down in the US.

 

This issue represents an issue with us moving towards alternative energy. It is a vital step to secure benefits long term for the entire world. However, this comes at the cost of negative environmental impacts on local ecosystems and communities. We will need to risk the environments of some areas to save them all. However, it is difficult to argue this point to the population at large, as impacts to the local environment will be what is felt by the people in the beginning. Large deposits of vital minerals, such as in maine, will need to be used in the future to keep up with our shift towards alternative energy sources. As a compromise. We might need to start with deposits far away from people as we slowly draw others away from areas rich in minerals.