A new documentary, Europe’s Lithium Paradox, produced by Storyrunner and SIM² KU Leuven and distributed by Journeyman Pictures, delves into the European Union’s struggle to secure a sustainable and self-sufficient supply of lithium—a metal essential for electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy storage.
Despite possessing significant lithium reserves, Europe lacks operational mines and remains heavily dependent on imports, particularly from China. The film investigates the challenges hindering the development of domestic lithium mining, including slow permitting processes and opposition from environmental groups.
Featuring insights from policymakers, industry experts, and civil society representatives, the documentary examines key projects across the continent, such as Serbia’s Jadar mine and Portugal’s Mina do Barroso. It also addresses the broader implications of Europe’s reliance on external sources for critical raw materials and explores potential pathways toward a more resilient and environmentally conscious supply chain.
