Salar de Atacama in Chile is slowly sinking, raising concerns

Recent research has revealed that the Salar de Atacama in Chile, a significant source of lithium, is experiencing subsidence at a rate of 1 to 2 centimeters per year. This phenomenon is attributed to the extraction of lithium-rich brine, which is pumped to evaporation pools, leading to a substantial loss of water to the atmosphere. The study, published in 2024, utilized InSAR technology to measure surface deformation, highlighting the environmental impacts of lithium extraction. Francisco Delgado, a researcher at the Universidad de Chile, emphasized the serious implications of subsidence due to changes in permeability. The findings indicate that the extraction processes may have irreversible effects on the ecosystem, which is home to various species, including flamingos. Joaquin Eduardo Castillo Rojas, a geology Master's student involved in the research, pointed out the need for comprehensive monitoring to understand the ecological consequences of lithium extraction. The study serves as a critical example for other salt flats in the Central Andes, suggesting that similar monitoring efforts are necessary to assess the sustainability of lithium extraction in these ecosystems. The global demand for lithium, driven by the booming battery market, raises concerns about the long-term viability of such extraction practices. As the world transitions to renewable energy, the balance between resource extraction and environmental preservation becomes increasingly vital. The research underscores the importance of sustainable practices in lithium production, which is essential for the energy transition while safeguarding the unique ecosystems of the Salar de Atacama.