From geothermal brine to battery: balancing technological innovation with environmental and social responsibility: a case study from Lithium Valley.

Abstract

This study synthesizes current research on lithium extraction, focusing on technological advances, the growing demand for lithium in the energy transition, and the environmental and social challenges associated with its production. It uses the Lithium Valley project in Imperial County, California, as a case study to examine these issues in detail. The analysis includes a review of literature, industry reports, and public meeting records related to lithium extraction. It examines conventional methods such as brine evaporation and compares them to emerging direct lithium extraction (DLE) technologies. The study also assesses the environmental impacts, community concerns, and economic factors influencing the development of lithium extraction projects, particularly in Lithium Valley. The results indicate that lithium demand will increase dramatically due to the expansion of electric vehicle production and renewable energy storage that rely on lithium-ion batteries. DLE technologies offer a promising alternative to traditional methods, with the potential for reduced water consumption, land use and carbon emissions. The Lithium Valley Project, with its access to geothermal brines, represents a significant opportunity for domestic lithium production. However, the project faces challenges related to water resource management, air quality, and ensuring equitable benefits for local communities. Community engagement and transparent decision-making are essential to address these concerns and promote environmental justice. The economic viability of lithium extraction depends on technological innovation, efficient resource management and the ability to responsibly convert resources into reserves. The physical availability of lithium is not a limiting factor, but rather the ability to invest in environmentally and socially responsible extraction methods. This review integrates diverse perspectives from industry reports and scientific literature to provide a comprehensive analysis of lithium extraction methods, focusing on technical, economic, and social dimensions. Through a systematic evaluation of projects such as Lithium Valley, it highlights the critical need for comparative assessment of different lithium production pathways. The analysis underscores the importance of including stakeholder perspectives traditionally overlooked in academic and policy discussions, thereby promoting more inclusive and responsible development in the clean energy sector