Sustainability Assessment of Lithium Mining Projects in Portugal

The imperative to address climate change and achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has accelerated the energy transition, with critical minerals playing a crucial role in emerging energy technologies. Among these, lithium is vital to produce green batteries, but the rapid increase in mining activities raises concerns about the sustainability of finite resources and their broader environmental and social impacts. This paper focuses on lithium, analysing two ongoing lithium mining projects in Portugal as case studies. Using a modified version of the Rapid Impact Assessment Matrix (RIAM) enhanced with Phillips' sustainability mathematical model, we comprehensively evaluate the environmental, social, and economic impacts of these projects.
The study further examines the environmental implications of different mining methods, comparing the impacts of open-pit and underground mining to provide insights into minimizing ecological disruption. Additionally, it explores how integrating circular economy principles, such as resource recycling and by-product utilization, can enhance the sustainability of lithium mining operations. Our research contributes to advancing sustainability science by offering a comprehensive assessment tool and practical strategies for improving the sustainability of critical raw material extraction.