Mining lithium for EV batteries puts the tradeoff of green transport and local environmental damage in high relief. We talk to an expert- Professor Thea Riofrancos of Providence College, who has studied the question. Her advice is to look at the current moment as a 'critical juncture' that will define our path into the decarbonized future, but also to try to imagine a middle ground where we have a green society that does not destroy local habitats.

The reading list:

• The Climate Minute Lithium Series, Episode 1, Looking at the energy transition thru the Li lens
• Riofrancos' excellent summary of issues in The Guardian
• Riofrancos in Dissent, on extractivism
• Lithium protests and water worries in Chile
• slow water in Peru
• Solar panels vs Cranberries
• Critical Junctures
• Earthworks on lithium mining

Because we recognize the necessity of personal accountability for our actions, because we accept responsibility for a building a durable future and because we believe it is our patriotic duty as citizens to speak out, we must insist the United States transform it’s energy sector, over the next decade, under a just and equitable plan, that uses regulations, investments and a price on carbon to safeguard our collective future.

Thanks for listening.

…Ted McIntyre