Savannah Resources’ latest update on its lithium mining plans in Boticas has triggered a wave of public backlash, with nearly 500 critical comments appearing under the report published by SIC Notícias. The response reflects rising public awareness and concern over large-scale extractive projects long opposed by environmental groups and local communities.
Despite holding 27% Portuguese share capital and enjoying backing from the European Commission, Savannah continues to face deep mistrust. Citizens reacting to the news accused authorities of “selling the country in pieces” and appealed to the media to help resist “economic interests” they see as threatening Portugal’s landscape and rural communities.
Critics also linked Savannah’s project to a broader trend of mega-developments — from lithium and copper mines to vast photovoltaic parks — that they fear will leave Portugal depleted of its natural assets. Activists from the movement opposing the massive Sophia Solar Park echoed the concerns, calling the situation a “calamity” and urging immediate resistance.
Savannah, however, remains optimistic. The company aims to begin construction at the Barroso mine by late 2026 and start production in 2028. It has also secured the Aldeia concession, where it plans to extract lithium, quartz and feldspar. CEO Emanuel Proença said studies show larger-than-expected lithium resources at Boticas, projecting long-term economic benefits and job creation through on-site processing.
Planned infrastructure includes a factory, internal roads, water reservoirs, a WWTP, offices and a laboratory — all scheduled to be built in parallel over an 18-month period. Savannah is currently awaiting government approval for a second administrative easement for geotechnical work, already facing strong local opposition.
While the company continues to detail its engineering, financing and regulatory preparation, public sentiment appears increasingly hostile. Local residents and environmental advocates remain unconvinced and continue to challenge the project at every stage.
