Article

Imerys aims to commence lithium extraction in Échassières by 2028, utilizing 600,000 m³ of water yearly from the Sioule and Cher rivers. Recent admissions indicate the company may need to pump 800 m³ of groundwater daily, leading to a one-meter drop in water table levels.

The Environmental Authority has reported possible exhaure rates reaching 1,180 m³ to 4,450 m³ daily. The management of exhaure water remains unclear, with potential environmental impacts noted, including contamination risks and effects on local water sources and ecosystems. Experts advocate for independent evaluations of the project's water management strategy.