Biden Administration Approves Controversial Nevada Lithium Mine

The Rhyolite Ridge project aims to boost U.S. lithium production for EVs, despite concerns over an endangered wildflower.

The Rhyolite Ridge mine in Nevada is the first U.S. lithium project approved under President Biden, set to supply enough lithium for 370,000 electric vehicles annually.
The project promises to quadruple U.S. lithium production and reduce reliance on Chinese imports, enhancing national security and the clean energy transition.
Environmentalists have raised concerns that the mine could threaten the Tiehm's buckwheat, a rare wildflower native to the area and listed as endangered.
Ioneer, the company behind the project, has pledged to implement measures to protect the flower, including habitat preservation and propagation efforts.
The mine is expected to create significant economic benefits, including 500 construction jobs and 350 operational jobs, providing a boost to the local economy.