Leuven, Belgium – The University of Leuven (KU Leuven) has issued a statement clarifying details surrounding their upcoming documentary, “Not In My Country: Serbia’s Lithium Dilemma,” amid public scrutiny and online criticism.
The film, facing accusations of bias and undisclosed agendas, is actually a production of SIM², KU Leuven’s Institute for Sustainable Metals and Minerals. SIM², a multi-disciplinary institute of over 400 researchers, is dedicated to advancing sustainable practices in critical metal and mineral production, including lithium.
Directed by Peter Tom Jones, SIM²’s Director reiterated in the statement that the documentary, scheduled to premiere at the European Parliament on February 5th, is fully funded by KU Leuven and serves a purely educational purpose.
“SIM² has no financial interest in publishing these documentaries,” Jones clarified. “It will not receive royalties or commercial income. The production of these films is solely part of SIM²’s commitment to ‘wider-society learning’.”
“Not In My Country” is the first in a two-part series examining lithium’s role in transitioning to a climate-neutral society. Its companion, “Europe’s Lithium Paradox,” set for release in May 2025, will delve deeper into the complexities of lithium mining, recycling, and demand management within Europe.
SIM² emphasizes their expertise in lithium exploration and processing techniques through extensive research projects. Funding for “Europe’s Lithium Paradox” comes from Horizon Europe project grants, complemented by internal KU Leuven funds and crowdfunding.
The statement assures the public that both documentaries reflect SIM²’s commitment to unbiased research and transparent communication on crucial topics like lithium’s future in a sustainable world.
