Sigma Lithium mining impacts water access in Minas Gerais

In the Jequitinhonha region of Minas Gerais, lithium mining operations by Sigma Lithium are impacting local water access in rural communities such as Ponte do Piauí, Santa Luzia, Piauí Poço Dantas, and Taquaral Seco.

Sigma Lithium provides water tanks to residents through its ‘Água para Todos’ program, with water delivered monthly via water trucks. However, a report from the Ministry of Public Affairs of Minas Gerais (MPMG) regarding environmental impacts in the Grota do Cirilo area highlights significant challenges. Residents report severe rationing; for example, some families receive approximately 4.76 liters of water per person daily for direct consumption and cooking. This falls significantly below the United Nations standard of at least 20 liters per person per day for reasonable access to potable water.