In the Atacama Desert, the Lickanantay people resist lithium mining that threatens their cultural existence and the essential water resources of their land. Black flags are raised by community members to symbolize their defiance. As lithium becomes critical for global green energy, they fear losing their way of life despite promises of economic compensation. Active mining operations by companies like SQM, Albemarle, and BYD have raised concerns about the depletion of vital water sources. Community members stress that no amount of compensation can replace the cultural and environmental costs they face.
"Our life is contained in that water, the day it dries up, we're dead as a culture, and we will have to leave."
"They can give us all the money and resources they want, but we'll never get back what we're losing."
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