Serbia’s Ministry of Environmental Protection has set out the scope and requirements for an environmental impact assessment (EIA) covering the mining component of the Jadar project, a lithium and boron mining venture led by Rio Tinto. The ministry’s requirements include work on cumulative environmental impacts and mitigation measures. Environmental groups, including Marš sa Drine, say the approval is unlawful, citing public participation concerns, environmental safeguards, and alleged preferential treatment for corporate interests.
EIA scope request for underground mining in western Serbia
On September 17, Rio Tinto’s Serbian subsidiary, Rio Sava Exploration, submitted a request to determine the EIA scope for underground mining operations in the Jadar region. The Jadar region is in western Serbia. The mining activity is planned across multiple municipalities: Gornje Nedeljice, Brnjac, Veliko Selo, Jarebice, Slatina, Stupnica and Šurice.
The operations are described as taking place within a designated special purpose area for exploiting and processing jadarite. Jadarite is identified as a rare lithium and boron ore found in the Jadar deposit. The request focuses on the mining component of the overall project.
Criticism over project segmentation and cumulative impacts
The Regulatory Institute for Renewable Energy and Environmental Protection (RERI), a nongovernmental organization, criticized the approach to assessing the project. RERI accused Rio Tinto of “salami slicing,” describing it as splitting the project into smaller parts to avoid a comprehensive EIA for the entire operation. RERI said this would conceal cumulative environmental impacts.
RERI’s criticism relates to what it describes as the broader Jadar project beyond underground mining. It includes a jadarite processing plant and disposal of mining tailings and low-grade ore. RERI also said the approach undermines compliance with European Union environmental standards.
Ministry requirements for mitigation, monitoring and EU-aligned methods
In November, after reviewing public comments and proposals, the Ministry of Environmental Protection established the scope for the mining project’s environmental impact study. The ministry required Rio Tinto to address cumulative environmental impacts in its EIA materials. It also required proposed mitigation strategies and monitoring systems.
The ministry further required Rio Tinto to outline the use of best available technologies. It also stated that the study should follow EU environmental practices. Rio Tinto has one year to submit the EIA study to the ministry.
Marš sa Drine alleges legal violations tied to public participation
Marš sa Drine, part of the Association of Environmental Organizations of Serbia (SEOS), argued that the ministry’s decision is unlawful and biased toward Rio Tinto. The group said multiple legal violations occurred in connection with the decision-making process. Its claims include failure to assess cumulative impacts and inadequate public participation.
Marš sa Drine also cited incomplete project documentation as part of its objections. The group further alleged violations of Serbian laws and international environmental conventions. It said citizens should pursue legal action against the decision.