Covas do Barroso residents block Savannah Resources lithium mining works

Residents of Covas do Barroso in Boticas have initiated a new blockade to halt prospecting activities by the British company Savannah Resources. Approximately thirty locals formed a human chain in front of prospecting machinery to prevent work in areas covered by administrative easements granted by the Portuguese government.

The Association Unidos em Defesa de Covas do Barroso (UDCB) states the protest is a defense of their way of life and local rights against the lithium mining project. Protesters expressed concerns regarding noise, environmental destruction, and the impact of an open-pit mine on their community. This follows a similar blockade on October 9, which resulted in the police identification of 27 opponents.

Savannah Resources stated that works follow a specific schedule and comply with the administrative easement granted by the State. The company noted it continues to work on various fronts, including environmental compliance reports and financing.