Canadian expert finds flaws in Barroso lithium mine air studies

A University of British Columbia professor, Douw G. Steyn, has found "significant limitations" in the air quality studies underpinning the Environmental Impact Statement for the Barroso lithium mine, according to campaign group UDCB. His report cites short monitoring periods, poor characterisation of local weather conditions and unclear pollutant dispersion modelling, concluding that current data cannot reliably determine impacts on air, health and the environment. UDCB is holding a public meeting in Boticas to present the findings. The mine, approved in 2023 and backed by €110 million in government funding for developer Savannah Resources, remains contested locally, with the Public Prosecutor's Office separately seeking annulment of the approval.