In the Portuguese village of Covas do Barroso, Nelson Gomes starts his day at dawn, tending to cows and a vegetable garden. He also stands guard as Savannah Resources seeks to drill on land described as contested. The company is based in London.
Savannah Resources is pursuing lithium extraction from the region’s subsoil. The project is linked to demand for lithium used in electric vehicles and renewable energy storage. Despite opposition from villagers lasting more than a decade, the Portuguese government supports the mining operations.
Community resistance and government backing for lithium drilling
Villagers in Covas do Barroso have opposed the proposed lithium mines for over ten years. Residents have organized to block the project while anticipating the development of what is described as Europe’s largest open-pit lithium mine. Tensions among locals include cases where some residents sell their lands to Savannah Resources while others oppose the plan.
European leaders have discussed transforming the area into a major lithium mining hub within Europe. The company’s efforts to open the mine began facing bureaucratic hurdles and political upheavals in 2018. Those challenges have also been accompanied by a corruption scandal.
Film depiction of the dispute at Cannes
The Cannes Film Festival premiered Savannah and the Mountain, a film by Paulo Carneiro about the community’s struggle over the proposed lithium mines. The film presents a mix of reality and fiction, portraying residents united against a foreign mining company. It frames the conflict through a showdown-like narrative style.
The production faced financial challenges involving the State Institute of Cinema. It received support from the Boticas municipality and the Uruguayan Film and Audiovisual Agency. The film also highlights environmental and cultural impacts associated with the proposed project.
Lithium supply push in Europe and the United States
Efforts by Europe and the United States to secure domestic sources of lithium are increasing alongside clean energy targets. Within that broader context, Savannah Resources’ project in Covas do Barroso remains a focal point for competing priorities locally. The dispute continues to divide residents over economic prospects and environmental concerns.