U.S. pulls plug on authorization for lithium exploration next to a national wildlife refuge in Nevada
U.S. pulls plug on authorization for lithium exploration next to a ... POLITICO
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Federal Land Managers Withdraw Authorization for Lithium Exploration Project
Introduction
The Federal land managers have officially withdrawn their authorization for a Canadian mining company’s lithium exploration project near a national wildlife refuge in southern Nevada. This decision comes after conservationists filed a lawsuit to block the project, citing concerns about the endangered species protected under the Endangered Species Act.
The Lawsuit and Temporary Injunction
The Center for Biological Diversity and the Amargosa Conservancy filed a lawsuit on July 7, arguing that the project posed a risk to several protected species. They also sought a temporary injunction to prevent the company from initiating drilling activities. However, before a judge could rule on the request, the Bureau of Land Management notified the company that their earlier acceptance of the project was a mistake.
Reasons for Withdrawal
The Bureau of Land Management concluded that the proposed operations could disturb localized groundwaters connected to threatened and endangered species in local springs. The agency stated that the operator was unable to prevent unnecessary or undue degradation based on the available evidence. This decision provides a temporary reprieve for the unique ecosystem in the Mojave Desert, which is home to numerous endemic species.
Community Response
Mason Voehl, the executive director of the Amargosa Conservancy, expressed gratitude for the decision, calling it a remarkable victory for their community. He emphasized that mining activities should not be allowed near the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge.
Company’s Response
Rover Metals, the Canadian mining company, has not yet responded to requests for comment regarding the withdrawal of authorization.
Environmental Review and Compliance
The company had previously announced that it had received an exploration drill permit for its Let’s Go Lithium project. However, the Center for Biological Diversity argued that a formal environmental review was necessary due to the presence of protected species near the project site. The Bureau of Land Management agreed with this assessment and stated that the company must submit a formal plan of operations for review.
Public Opposition and Message
Patrick Donnelly, the Great Basin director at the Center for Biological Diversity, expressed relief that the lawsuit and public opposition led to the suspension of the project. He emphasized the importance of protecting special places from drilling activities, while acknowledging the need for lithium in the renewable energy transition.
SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?
- SDG 15: Life on Land
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13: Climate Action
The article discusses the withdrawal of authorization for a lithium exploration project that posed a risk to protected species and their habitats. This relates to SDG 15, which focuses on protecting and restoring ecosystems and biodiversity on land. Additionally, the article mentions the use of lithium in manufacturing batteries for electric vehicles, highlighting the connection to SDG 12, which promotes responsible consumption and production. The mention of the project’s potential impact on groundwater and its connection to threatened and endangered species also relates to SDG 13, which addresses climate action and the protection of ecosystems.
2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?
- Target 15.5: Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats
- Target 12.2: Achieve sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources
- Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning
The withdrawal of authorization for the lithium exploration project aligns with Target 15.5 of SDG 15, as it prevents the potential degradation of natural habitats in the Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge. The focus on responsible consumption and production in SDG 12 is reflected in Target 12.2, which aims to achieve sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources. Lastly, the consideration of the project’s impact on groundwater and its connection to threatened and endangered species aligns with Target 13.2 of SDG 13, which emphasizes the integration of climate change measures into national policies and planning.
3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?
- Indicator 15.5.1: Red List Index
- Indicator 12.2.1: Material footprint, material footprint per capita, and material footprint per GDP
- Indicator 13.2.1: Number of countries that have integrated mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction, and early warning measures into their national policies, strategies, and planning
The article does not explicitly mention specific indicators. However, to measure progress towards Target 15.5 of SDG 15, the Red List Index can be used as an indicator. This index assesses the conservation status of species and measures changes in their population over time. For Target 12.2 of SDG 12, indicators such as material footprint, material footprint per capita, and material footprint per GDP can be used to measure the sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources. Indicator 13.2.1 of SDG 13 can be used to measure progress towards integrating climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning.
4. Table: SDGs, Targets, and Indicators
| SDGs | Targets | Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| SDG 15: Life on Land | Target 15.5: Take urgent and significant action to reduce the degradation of natural habitats | Indicator 15.5.1: Red List Index |
| SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production | Target 12.2: Achieve sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources | Indicator 12.2.1: Material footprint, material footprint per capita, and material footprint per GDP |
| SDG 13: Climate Action | Target 13.2: Integrate climate change measures into national policies, strategies, and planning | Indicator 13.2.1: Number of countries that have integrated mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction, and early warning measures into their national policies, strategies, and planning |
Behold! This splendid article springs forth from the wellspring of knowledge, shaped by a wondrous proprietary AI technology that delved into a vast ocean of data, illuminating the path towards the Sustainable Development Goals. Remember that all rights are reserved by SDG Investors LLC, empowering us to champion progress together.
Source: politico.com
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