Biology Faculty professors clearly against lithium mining, Vucic calls them 'liars'

The faculty’s experts spoke out due to what they call "incorrect, unfounded, contradictory, and biased statements" from state officials, clarifying their position in the environmental impact study. They recommend halting the planned exploitation of the Jadarite mineral due to irreversible ecological damage and risks to biodiversity.

The faculty also distanced themselves from certain data in the draft, holding Rio Sava Exploration and the consulting firm "The Biodiversity Consultancy" responsible. The "Ne damo Jadar" association welcomed the faculty’s stance, seeing it as a strong signal that the project is unsafe.

For local residents, the faculty's position is crucial, but President Vucic sees it differently, calling their warnings about environmental disaster "brutal lies." Nebojsa Petkovic of "Ne damo Jadar" criticized Vucic, accusing him of dismissing expert opinions because they don’t align with his narrative.

While Vucic expressed willingness to discuss lithium mining, he didn’t mention the Faculty of Biology. He plans to meet with both opponents and proponents of the mine, as well as international representatives, emphasizing dialogue over conflict. He also expressed concerns that Rio Tinto might prioritize profit over environmental protection, which he vowed not to allow.