Environmental organisations and local communities have filed a lawsuit against the European Commission at the European Court of Justice, challenging its decision to designate the Mina do Barroso lithium project in northern Portugal as a “strategic” project under the EU Critical Raw Materials Act. The case highlights growing tension between Europe’s industrial ambitions and the need for environmental protection.
The Barroso deposit is one of Europe’s largest spodumene lithium resources, located in a largely rural area of northern Portugal. The project, developed by London-listed Savannah Resources, has been classified as strategic to supply critical raw materials for technologies like electric vehicle (EV) batteries. Supporters claim it could provide lithium for around 500,000 EV battery packs annually, helping the EU compete in global green tech supply chains.
Environmental and Social Concerns
Opponents argue that the strategic designation allows the project to bypass proper scrutiny. The lawsuit, led by ClientEarth and the United Association for the Defense of Covas do Barroso (UDCB), asserts that the Commission failed to fully assess environmental sustainability. Key risks include:
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Potential impacts on water resources
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Threats to biodiversity
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Safety concerns regarding waste storage facilities
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Long-term effects on agriculture and local communities
Local communities have consistently raised concerns about potential contamination and disruption of traditional livelihoods, making the project a long-standing point of contention.
The European Commission has defended its decision, stating that environmental concerns are “unfounded” and emphasizing that member states remain responsible for enforcing environmental compliance. The Commission also clarified that a “strategic” designation does not constitute project approval—all necessary permits must still be obtained from regional and national authorities.
The lawsuit comes as the EU seeks to strengthen domestic lithium supply chains to meet ambitious climate, energy, and EV targets, while reducing reliance on global suppliers such as China. However, critics argue that rapid expansion without proper oversight could create environmental sacrifice zones and exacerbate social conflict in rural regions.
Legal Stakes and Future Implications
Environmental campaigners are asking for:
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Annulment of the strategic designation
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Legal clarity on EU obligations for sustainable mining and thorough impact assessments
The outcome of the case could influence how the EU balances critical raw materials policy with environmental protection and community rights, potentially setting a precedent for similar projects across Europe.
