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Environment
Environmental stewardship is at the core of Lithium Ionic's mission. Our goal of establishing a commercial-grade lithium operation is rooted in our dedication to helping nations achieve net-zero emission goals.
As a mining company, we understand that our work will, at times, disrupt the environment. While the effects of mining activities on the environment are inevitable, Lithium Ionic is committed to minimizing its ecological impact and reducing its carbon footprint through sustainable mining practices.
Our commitment to environmental responsibility extends to the strict adherence to all regulatory guidelines governing our exploration and development programs.
Bandeira Project: Sustainable Mine Design
Permitting Process
Bandeira
The Bandeira project is currently in the process of obtaining necessary permits and environmental approvals for its underground mine site. The project is eligible for a Concomitant Environmental Simplified License (LAC), which combines two licenses (Preliminary License and Installation License) into one combined license. In Q4 2023, Lithium Ionic successfully applied for the LAC license for the Bandeira project through the completion and submission of the Environmental Control Report and Environmental Control Plan.
The review of the Concomitant Environmental and Installation License (“LAC”) application for the Bandeira Project is well underway by the Minas Gerais State Department of Environment and Sustainable Development ("SEMAD”). Since submitting the application in November 2023 (see press release HERE to learn more), Lithium Ionic has engaged in productive discussions with SEMAD, during which no significant concerns or issues were highlighted. The license is expected to be granted in early Q3 2024, aligning with our projected timeline. In addition, the Environmental Impact Assessment is currently underway with an expected completion in H1 2024.
Salinas
The Company is in the process of selecting a suitable consultant to carry out an Environmental Impact Assessment (“EIA”) study for the Salinas property, which will contain an analysis of the Project’s potential environmental and social impacts. Following the completion of the EIA, which is expected in Q1 2025, the Company can apply for the “Prior License” (“LP” or Licença Prévia in Portuguese), the first stage of the environmental licensing process for mining projects in Brazil.
Future Plans:
- Harness hydroelectric power as our electricity source on site (future construction is already secured for the Bandeira site)
- Evaluate the results of the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment and create an action plan to preserve local ecosystems.
- We intend to increase our proportion of non-hazardous waste recycled in the future and are currently exploring different recycling possibilities, with a particular focus on agriculture.