Geologist Branislav Bozovic expressed concerns about the potential environmental impact of lithium mining in Serbia, dismissing the notion of "zero pollution" as unrealistic. Bozovic warns that exploitation could severely contaminate land and water. Pročitaj više

„Natural water systems are incredibly interconnected and contamination can quickly spread, affecting downstream and upstream ecosystems,“ he stated.

Azra Berbic, an activist with the Atelier for Social Change Foundation, echoed these concerns, highlighting the shared fears of residents in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

„People across the country, not just in eastern Bosnia and Herzegovina, are worried that lithium mining will destroy water, air, and soil, threatening our survival,“ she said. Berbic emphasized the widespread mobilization of communities to protect their lands and resources from mining interests. „There’s a strong, unified message: we will not allow our land and heritage to be touched.“

Broader implications and mobilization

Bozovic cited the failure of projects like the Belgrade metro, which threatened vital underground water sources, as a cautionary tale. He also mentioned past incidents of rapid contamination, such as the pollution in Gracanica following mining activities. „Such events underscore the serious risks posed by mining,“ he noted.

Both experts stressed the need for vigilance and community action to prevent environmental degradation. „The idea of zero pollution is a myth. We must recognize and address the real dangers to our natural resources,“ Bozovic concluded.