Potential Impacts to Biodiversity from Proposed Lithium Extraction in Nevada and California
Lithium mining in NV and CA, vital for clean energy, can threaten biodiversity—especially rare, wetland-dependent species. Careful planning is required to ensure their protection.
Subject Tags
- Conservation Planning
- Biodiversity
- Business and Industry
Abstract
This report describes risks to biodiversity from proposed lithium mining in Nevada and California, regions critical for clean energy mineral supply. Using geospatial and species data, the study finds that many imperiled, wetland-dependent species have ranges overlapping with mine sites, heightening extinction risk. The authors emphasize the need for careful planning, hydrological assessment, and targeted conservation to balance mineral demand with the protection of ecosystems and water resources.
Citation
Clifford MJ, Parker SS, Saito L, Cohen BS, Fraga NS. 2024. Potential Impacts to Biodiversity From Proposed Lithium Extraction in Nevada and California. Reno: The Nature Conservancy.
Media Contacts
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Michael Clifford
Nevada Conservation Scientist
The Nature Conservancy
Email: michael.clifford@tnc.org -
Sophie Parker
Interim Director of Conservation Science, California
The Nature Conservancy
Email: sophie_parker@tnc.org -
Laurel Saito
Strategy Director of Water, Nevada
The Nature Conservancy
Email: laurel.saito@tnc.org