Scientists have made an incredible discovery in an ancient supervolcano located on the Nevada-Oregon border. They have uncovered the largest lithium deposit in the world, potentially revolutionizing the global lithium market and boosting America’s energy independence. The McDermitt Caldera, formed 19 million years ago, is believed to hold the largest reserves of lithium globally, surpassing the previously richest lithium source in Bolivia’s salt flats. This discovery could disrupt China’s control over lithium production, as the country currently refines 90% of the metal mined. However, concerns have been raised about the environmental impact of mining and the site’s location on sacred Native American land. Despite these challenges, experts believe that the extraction process, which involves removing clay and leaching lithium, could have significant benefits in terms of price, supply security, and geopolitics.
A new major lithium deposit has been found in the USA inside of a volcano crater.
Estimates range from 20-40 million tons of Lithium in Nevada.
This is now the biggest deposit known on earth, ahead of Bolivia. pic.twitter.com/eYMhMr53Wk
— Lark Davis (@TheCryptoLark) September 11, 2023
The United States currently imports a significant amount of lithium-ion batteries, with China being the main supplier. The discovery of a domestic lithium source in the McDermitt Caldera could greatly reduce this dependence and contribute to the country’s energy independence. However, the extraction process poses challenges due to its water-intensive nature and potential ecological damage. Additionally, Native American tribes have voiced opposition to mining activities on their sacred land. Despite these obstacles, the potential benefits of having a domestic lithium source are immense, especially as the demand for lithium increases with the transition towards clean energy and electric vehicles. This discovery marks a significant step for America’s pursuit of energy independence.
🔋An estimated 40 million metric tons of Lithium has been found in the McDermitt Caldera (located near the Nevada-Oregon border).
-Due to regulations, the US share of lithium production is down from 37% in 1995 to 1% in 2021.
-Lawsuits initially delayed the opening of this… pic.twitter.com/qtOGqn1uAO
— Wise Squirrel (@WiseSquirrel_) September 11, 2023
While there are challenges ahead, the discovery of the world’s largest lithium deposit in the McDermitt Caldera holds immense potential for the United States. It offers an opportunity to reshape the lithium market, reduce dependence on foreign sources, and support America’s position as a leader in clean energy innovation.
This article appeared in Our Patriot and has been published here with permission.
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