Abstract
Currently, the use of lithium as a resource in the manufacturing of technological components such as mobile phones, computers or even in the automotive sector, is in high demand. In this sense, the prospects for lithium open-pit mines in order to obtain this highly valued resource have improved remarkably. However, the installation of this type of mine causes certain negative environmental consequences such as air pollution, water pollution, and even a reduction in the biodiversity of the environment, which generates welfare losses due to the cost involved. The objective of this work is to analyse the preferences of the citizens of Cáceres (Spain) regarding the possible opening of an open-pit lithium mine in the surroundings of the city. For this, a choice experiment was carried out to identify the willingness to accept certain levels of contamination and/or reduction of biodiversity and to quantify its monetary quantification. Likewise, a mixed-effects model was applied in order to analyse the heterogeneity in preferences and the willingness to accept the installation. The results showed that water pollution is one of the most relevant attributes in the preferences, revealing a very high willingness to accept (€12–38/year) for water pollution compared to other attributes.
Highlights
Lithium as a natural resource is one of the minerals in most demand worldwide
Price has a positive sign, since it shows a greater preference over receiving a greater amount of money annually
The aim of this work was to carry out an environmental assessment of the potential impact of the installation of an open-pit lithium mine around a city, in this case Cáceres (Spain)
Summary
Lithium as a natural resource is one of the minerals in most demand worldwide. The applications of the mineral to the electrical industry are remarkable [1]. From its use in batteries in the automotive sector to its application in the computer industry sector, or for use in the pharmaceutical industry, it extends to many components. Lithium is considered of notable importance among minerals used for the construction of electric batteries [2]. Lithium has been incorporated as a critical raw material by the European Union [3]. In this sense, the European Union promotes the creation of investment projects in items such as lithium for use in the electronic field and its development [4]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
