The Boticas City Council has repeated its strong opposition to the lithium mining project by Savannah Resources. The council also made it clear that it never negotiated royalties or compensation with the company. This statement was signed by council president Fernando Queiroga which shows their commitment to the people and the environment.
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Boticas Lithium Mining
The council denied the company claim of offering an annual compensation of 10 million euros. Queiroga said that these talks never happened. The council stressed that they would never accept negotiations that compromise the area’s heritage and values.
The council said:
Never, and it should be emphasized, did Savannah Resources sit down at the table with the municipality of Boticas to negotiate anything whatsoever. Neither royalties nor any other type of compensation, much less in the amounts presented by the company, which speaks of an annual compensation to the municipality of Boticas of 10 million euros
The council’s stance against the project is firm. The council’s position reflects the concerns of local residents and their aim to protect the area’s natural and cultural value. For them, preserving their land and future generations is a top priority.
He added:
Negotiations wouldn’t even make sense because we are against this exploitation
Standing With The Community
The municipality of Boticas in northern Portugal has long opposed the Barroso lithium mine. Their concerns include environmental damage health risks and the loss of their rural lifestyle. Many residents have voiced their fears about how mining will disrupt their daily lives and threaten the region peaceful existence.
The council said:
The Boticas City Council subordinates this position not only because of all the environmental and public health issues that mining exploration entails, but also because of the ‘not very serious’ and ‘not very transparent’ way in which this process has always developed, with Savannah Resources using an intimidating discourse and strategy, while at the same time announcing the ‘paradise’ in terms of socioeconomic development of the region
They promised to support all efforts to stop the mine. The council also criticized the company for lacking transparency and using intimidating tactics. Such behavior has only strengthened the community’s resolve to protect their land and heritage.
Queiroga stressed:
They can promise as many millions as they want, wherever they want, they can talk about jobs, roads, hospitals, schools, nurseries, day centres, I don’t know what other compensation is, but that’s nothing more than promises thrown into the air
The council pointed out that flashy promises cannot cover up the risks and damages mining would bring.
He added:
The reality is that the only thing we have seen is destruction, devastation, lack of respect for public and private space and, above all, a lot of arrogance
Protecting Valuable Heritage
Boticas is part of the Barroso territory which is a World Agricultural Heritage Site. This title honors the region’s farming traditions and sustainable practices. This heritage is priceless for the people of Boticas. It represents their history and culture which they are determined to preserve for future generations.
Queiroga said:
We may be poor, we may be a small municipality in terms of population, we may have a limited municipal budget, but we are proud of the rigorous, judicious and wasteful management of financial resources, which makes us the 6th municipality in the country with the best financial efficiency and a family-friendly local authority for 12 consecutive years
Protecting the Barroso region is a matter of pride and identity for its people. The recognition as a World Agricultural Heritage Site underscores the importance of sustainable development over short-term gains.
The council also pointed out their responsible financial management. Boticas has been recognized as one of Portugal’s most financially efficient municipalities for 12 years in a row. This demonstrates their ability to prioritize community welfare over corporate interests.
Environmental Concerns
The environmental risks of lithium mining are a key reason for the opposition. Mining can harm ecosystems and pose health threats. The Boticas council described the project’s potential impact as destructive. They fear that the damage could be irreversible which will affect local agriculture and biodiversity.
He added:
There is no money, nor gold, nor lithium that can come close to the wealth of this rural area.
The council also criticized the company’s methods as aggressive and disrespectful. Residents share these concerns with many worried about the long-term effects on their health and livelihoods.
In May 2023, the Portuguese Environment Agency (APA) approved the project with conditions. However, this decision did not ease the concerns of local residents. They argue that environmental approvals cannot erase the threats posed by large-scale mining operations.
Defending The Future
The council’s statement calls for action to protect the region. It urges everyone to work together to safeguard the environment, cultural heritage, and community well-being. The fight against the Barroso mine has brought the community closer to stop the project.
Queiroga concluded:
The most important thing is and will always be people. This is our true wealth. It is priceless and non-negotiable,
This sentiment captures the essence of the community’s fight. They believe that their values and traditions are worth more than any financial compensation.
Savannah Resources plans to begin production in 2027. However, the strong opposition from the community and the council could delay or stop the project. Their resistance sends a clear message that local voices matter and must be respected.
The demand for lithium and other minerals is growing and rural regions are often targeted for mining. These projects promise economic growth but they also bring environmental and social costs.
The fight against the Barroso mine is about more than one project. It is a stand for the rights of local communities to decide their own future.
The people of Boticas have chosen to protect their heritage and way of life. Their resistance is a reminder that some things like community and the environment are worth more than money.
