Head of the Municipality of Lopare, Rado Savić, has taken action against the proposed opening of a lithium mine in Majevica mountain by submitting a petition signed by 3,711 citizens to the National Assembly of the Republic of Srpska. The petition, along with a local declaration, opposes the exploitation of lithium, boron, sodium, strontium, potassium, and associated elements within the municipality’s territory. Mayor Rado Savić emphasized the widespread opposition to the mine among the local population, citing concerns about its potential harm to the environment, rivers, and community well-being, as reported by Nezavisne novine.
Savić stressed the lack of similar mines in Europe, fueling significant fear among citizens. The petition’s submission follows a similar stance taken by officials in the Brčko District against lithium mining in their area. Investors have shown interest in exploration across various locations, including Bijeljina, Brčko, Lopare, Ugljevik, and Zvornik, all situated along the Drina river opposite Rio Tinto’s controversial Jadar project in Loznica, Serbia.
In particular, Swiss company Arcore has expressed interest in developing the mine, conducting several years of research with approval from local authorities. The company reported lithium deposits worth approximately USD 10 billion in the municipality of Lopare in October. Mayor Rado Savić is urging the National Assembly to compel the Government of the Republic of Srpska to reject the proposed lithium mine, reflecting the concerns and opposition voiced by the local community.
