Rio Tinto's Serbia Project: A Game-Changer for Europe's Green Future
Vladimir Kljajić, EDS:
Thank you for taking the time to do this interview. Please tell us more about Rio Tinto's existing operations and plans for Serbia. Blewitt Chad, Rio Tinto:
Well, thank you. We've been in Serbia since 2001, and we've been operating on this project and studying the Jadar project since 2004. So, over 20 years now, we've been studying the project. We employ people in Belgrade, and we have a lot of young employees as well as older employees, covering a broad age spectrum. Most of our workforce is Serbian. The Jadar project is unique because it involves a completely new mineral called Jadarite, recognized in 2006. This mineral contains lithium and boric acid, both critical raw materials used in various applications like SmartScreen glass, TV insulation, and fertilizers in agriculture.
Vladimir Kljajić, EDS: And why is the Jadar project so important?
Blewitt Chad, Rio Tinto: It's important firstly for Serbia itself. It’s a world-class lithium and boric acid project with the potential to transform Serbia’s economy. It can be a catalyst for other green industries, such as cathodes for batteries, electric vehicles, and ultimately recycling, contributing to a circular economy. As we transition to renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal, lithium batteries are essential for storing this energy safely. By 2035, the EU plans to eliminate combustion engines, replacing them with battery electric vehicles to reduce carbon emissions and limit global warming.
Vladimir Kljajić, EDS:Could reducing red tape for this project accelerate Serbia’s EU accession? What do you think about that?
Blewitt Chad, Rio Tinto: The opportunity to reduce red tape is global, not just in Serbia. Digital transition helps by automating processes and increasing transparency and efficiency. However, we don't want to cut corners. We aim to be radically transparent, sharing all information publicly, as we have done with our draft environmental impact assessment documents. These comprehensive studies are crucial for ensuring public awareness and generating informed public dialogue.
Vladimir Kljajić, EDS: How will this project aid both Serbia’s and the region’s economies?
Blewitt Chad, Rio Tinto: This project presents an exciting opportunity. Just as the combustion engine transformed transport in the 20th century, electrification and battery storage will transform our economies. Lithium batteries power many everyday devices, and their importance will only grow. Serbia has the best lithium asset in Europe, with the potential to fuel a whole industry, bringing high-paying jobs, new university curricula, and vocational training. This could keep young people in Serbia, creating 20,000 to 30,000 high-skilled jobs.
Vladimir Kljajić, EDS: Can you address some of the common misinformation circulating among the public regarding this project?
Blewitt Chad, Rio Tinto: There has been a strong disinformation campaign against the project, fueled by social media. For example, we're not an open-pit mine but a modern underground mine using 21st-century technology. Claims about using harmful chemicals and poisoning water are false. We use advanced safety measures similar to those at petrol stations. There’s also misinformation about forcibly moving people, which is untrue. Our land acquisition process follows international standards, and all transactions have been voluntary.
Vladimir Kljajić, EDS: Could you give us some examples of similar projects in Europe and beyond?
Blewitt Chad, Rio Tinto: Yes, there are many similar projects across Europe. For instance, there are projects in France, Germany, the Czech Republic, the UK, Portugal, Spain, Russia, and Austria. These projects are supported by the European Commission’s Critical Raw Materials Act, emphasizing the need for alternative supply sources and reducing dependence on single-source supply chains.
Vladimir Kljajić, EDS: Are you optimistic about the project considering all the delays so far?
Blewitt Chad, Rio Tinto: Yes, I am optimistic. Despite fluctuations in lithium prices, our project also produces boric acid, making it not solely dependent on lithium. The Jadar project is a long-life, high-grade mine that can be developed to the highest environmental standards. It offers significant opportunities for local businesses, new educational curricula, and high-paying jobs, keeping people in Serbia and transforming the economic landscape.
Vladimir Kljajić, EDS: Considering our magazine is read by a younger audience, could you give some career advice about the industry you are in?
Blewitt Chad, Rio Tinto: The world is transforming towards critical raw materials and energy storage. This shift requires new skills in science, engineering, and commercial disciplines. Mining today is a modern, inclusive industry that respects the environment. Technology has revolutionized the industry with autonomous operations and advanced data systems. I encourage young people to explore opportunities in mining and refining, as the demand for critical raw materials continues to grow, offering many jobs and skill development opportunities.