Last week, it was let known that the countries of Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina were rich in lithium: a natural resource that is being used in mass amounts world-wide. However, reaching this natural resource is not an easy job. The process is undeniable – mine. The mass amount of Lithium present in these countries has the ability to create an influx in the economy – which is something that is highly beneficial. Government officials can look at this situation as either a positive for the region’s economy, or a positive for their personal wallet (we have corruption to thank for that). Although, I am unsure as to how the citizens of these countries will feel. After all, people tend to look to others who have been through a similar crisis before and do the same thing. If Colombia and surrounding countries are saying no to mining, will Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina?
Mining processes, no matter how “controlled” inevitably disturb the environment. Mining physically removes dirt and debris from areas, then transplants it; how could you argue that it does not harm the environment? Colombians are firm on the issue, and know that it will contaminate one of their only supplies of clean drinking water. Why risk that? Well, government can argue that in return, the national GDP may sky-rocket; harvesting resources will be the new face of the country’s economical system. But does money go before the health of your family? The health of your new-born? Or even the health of the livestock you depend upon to stay alive?