The Ministry of Energy and Environment of Mendoza has initiated the Environmental Impact Assessment Procedure for a lithium salts exploration project in the Salinas del Diamante, San Rafael, presented by the company Jarillal SA in collaboration with the Australian company Ampere Lithium.
Jerónimo Shantal, director of Mining, highlighted the importance of these projects in the search for critical minerals for the energy transition, such as lithium. The assessment process includes analysis by the Faculty of Applied Sciences to the Industry (FCAI) of the National University of Cuyo, designated by the provincial authorities.
The Public Hearing is scheduled for November 25, 2024, and will be conducted both in person and virtually to allow citizens to express their observations and comments on the project. Participation in the hearing is open to anyone.
Minister Jimena Latorre emphasized the importance of citizen participation in building social license for this type of project. Mendoza, known mainly for the presence of copper, sees the exploration of lithium as a great opportunity for the province.
Leonardo Fernández, director of Environmental Protection, expressed his hope that the project advances favorably. In addition to the FCAI assessment, sectoral opinions from various entities, such as the Municipality of San Rafael and the National Road Directorate, are expected, in line with the required sustainability and environmental protection standards.