S3E20: Desert Protection versus Climate Capitalism: Can we have both?

This South American lithium mine shows one possible future for the Amargosa Basin

Note: 90 Miles from Needles will be on a brief hiatus until July 9.

Corporate Exploitation: The Case of Rover Critical Minerals

Key Takeaways

• Environmentalists are increasingly recognizing the value of desert ecosystems and advocating for their protection.

• Corporate exploitation of desert resources is a modern example of colonialism.

• Sustainable energy solutions should consider the ecological and cultural significance of the targeted lands.

The Dire Situation in Amargosa Valley

Rover Critical Minerals is attempting to mine lithium in Amargosa Valley NV, posing a severe threat to the local ecosystem and community. Chris Clarke, host of 90 Miles from Needles; The Desert Protection Podcast, provides a detailed account:

"Rover has also filed 400 plus mining claims within the community, right across the road from people's houses. This is widely seen as an affront to the people there, if for no other reason, then people rely on their well water without well water, you can't live there."

The implications are dire. The groundwater, essential for both human life and the unique ecosystem of Ash Meadows National Wildlife Refuge, could be depleted. As Clarke explains, drilling new water wells is not only expensive but also uncertain, putting the entire community at risk.

Uniting Diverse Groups Against a Common Threat

One of the most striking aspects of this conflict is how it has united a wide range of stakeholders, from local residents to environmental organizations and indigenous tribes. Clarke notes:

"Their actions have united the Amargosa Conservancy, which I'm on the board of, with local residents in Amargosa Valley and nearby communities whose politics span the spectrum from full-on QAnon to full-on Marxist."

This broad coalition demonstrates the universal recognition of the desert's value and the collective opposition to its exploitation. It’s a powerful reminder that common environmental threats can bridge even the widest ideological divides.

Environmental Regulation and Corporate Tactics

Corporate representatives like Judson Culter, PR flak for Rover Critical Minerals, often try to frame local opposition as irrational or influenced by competing interests.

“Culter said ‘They don't want anybody here. Whether it's an oil and gas lobby that's behind that, who knows? It's hard to say, but it doesn't make any sense.’”

This tactic of discrediting local voices reveals a deep disconnect between corporate ambitions and community welfare, highlighting the need for more inclusive and transparent environmental regulation.

Human Supremacy and Environmentalism

The podcast episode also critiques the overarching philosophy driving many environmental initiatives that focus solely on renewable energy without considering the ecological or cultural costs. Rebecca Wisent, quoted in the episode, captures this sentiment perfectly:

"The conversation now is almost entirely about ways to handle climate change without changing how we live. There's an overwhelming current of utilitarianism that demands we, for example, set aside our love for a place should it require paving with solar panels in order to power x number of homes. That’s not environmentalism. That’s human supremacy."

This notion of "human supremacy" underlines many misguided environmental efforts. It’s not enough to swap fossil fuels for renewable energy if it means obliterating irreplaceable ecosystems in the process. Sustainable solutions must consider the long-term health of both human and natural communities.

The Value of Conservation and Sensible Energy Policies

Clarke emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to energy consumption and conservation. Instead of compromising precious habitats, why not rethink our energy usage?

"Shouldn't leaving your lights on when you're not home be as anathema as smoking next to kids or driving after eight beers have become?"

This question calls for a shift in societal norms around energy consumption. Advocating for education and policy changes that promote conservation can yield significant benefits without sacrificing environments.

A Colonialist Approach to Resource Extraction

The transcript draws a parallel between modern energy companies and historical colonialists, showing how the former often disregard the well-being of local communities and ecosystems. Clarke summarizes this approach:

“Sorry, we need to come in and completely remake the place where you live in order for our lifestyle somewhere distant to benefit.” That is the definition of colonialism, and that's what the desert is facing.

This perspective sheds light on how energy corporations and even some environmental advocates can perpetuate colonialist practices by prioritizing their needs over the local populace and environment. It's crucial to recognize and address these dynamics to foster genuinely sustainable and ethical development practices.

Learning from the Past: David Brower and Glen Canyon

The story of David Brower and Glen Canyon serves as a historical reminder of the consequences of prioritizing distant benefits over local ecosystems. Brower initially agreed to compromise Glen Canyon to save other areas, but he later realized the immense value of what was lost.

This narrative underscores the importance of firsthand experience and understanding the intrinsic value of natural places before making irrevocable decisions. Modern environmental efforts must learn from such mistakes to avoid repeating them.

Insights

We must adopt a more nuanced approach to energy and environmental policy that respects and integrates the voices of local communities and environmental advocates. Sustainable solutions should not come at the cost of irreplaceable habitats and cultural sites. By recognizing the intrinsic value of places like the Amargosa Basin, we can develop more ethical and effective strategies for tackling the climate crisis.

Previously:

S3E19: Oh, Those Dark Desert Skies

S3E18: Don't Die Today! Staying Safe in Desert Heat