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Plans for German lithium mining prompt local protests

September 2, 2025

Europe's second largest lithium reserves are in Germany, and several companies are preparing to extract the important mineral. But locals in the mining region are up in arms, fearing a decline in tourism.

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A proposed lithium mining project in the Ore Mountains is stirring debate in the border village of Zinnwald. Zinnwald Lithium, a privately held company, plans to extract lithium-rich ore from beneath the region starting in 2030, aiming to produce battery-grade lithium hydroxide. While the project promises economic growth and hundreds of jobs, locals are divided.

Some see a revival of mining tradition, others fear damage to the area's thriving tourism industry. With environmental concerns and community resistance mounting, the future of lithium extraction in Zinnwald remains uncertain.

This video summary was created by AI from the original DW script. It was edited by a journalist before publication.