Rio Tinto has addressed recent criticisms from academician Bogdan Šolaja regarding the environmental impact of its Jadar lithium project, particularly concerning wastewater treatment and safety measures. Šolaja’s article, published on July 18, 2024, raised concerns about the adequacy of wastewater purification technologies and the safety of waste disposal methods used in the project.
In response, Rio Tinto emphasized that the technologies used for water purification—such as reverse osmosis and ultrafiltration—are well-established and widely utilized in industrial and municipal water treatment globally. These methods, which have been in use since the mid-20th century, are capable of purifying water to drinking standards and are considered reliable.
The company also clarified that the Jadar project plans include the construction of two wastewater treatment plants with sufficient capacity to handle even the most challenging scenarios. These facilities will employ proven purification techniques to ensure that any wastewater meets stringent environmental standards.
Regarding waste management, Rio Tinto noted that the Jadar project incorporates a backfill method to recycle up to 50% of the waste, a technique tested extensively to ensure stability and effectiveness. Solid waste landfills will be designed with protective layers to prevent leakage and monitored for at least 30 years, as required by Serbian law.
The company addressed concerns about the potential impact of flooding on the project, stating that the design has been adjusted based on studies to ensure protection against extreme weather events. The perimeter embankments have been raised to safeguard the facility from the Probable Maximum Flood (PMF), a rare and severe flooding scenario.
Rio Tinto also responded to questions about the financial aspects of the project, explaining that debt repayment to the parent company does not affect the project’s profitability or the state’s mineral rent income. The repayment is recorded separately in financial statements and does not impact the company’s declared profit.
The company reiterated its commitment to transparency and dialogue, inviting further discussion on the project’s environmental measures and potential benefits. Rio Tinto remains open to constructive feedback and aims to ensure that the Jadar project is conducted with the highest standards of environmental and operational safety.
