Sigma Lithium Corporation, a leading global producer of lithium for the next generation of electric vehicles, has achieved a major milestone by securing a Triple Environmental License for its Barreiro mine. This includes the Licença Operacional (LO), Licença Prévia (LP), and Licença de Instalação (LI), marking the second mine site within the company’s wholly-owned Grota do Cirilo property in Brazil. The Barreiro mine is set to integrate with Sigma’s Greentech Industrial Plant in the coming years, ensuring a reliable supply of carbon-neutral, socially, and environmentally sustainable lithium concentrate.

The Triple Environmental License was granted after a comprehensive evaluation process, receiving unanimous approval, including support from all NGO members of the Chamber of Mining Activities (Câmara Técnica Especializada em Atividades Minerárias) in Minas Gerais, Brazil. This achievement secures continuous mining operations and a stable supply of spodumene ore for Sigma’s Greentech Industrial Complex throughout the 16-year term of its development financing from BNDES.

Although the current operations do not immediately require mining at Barreiro, Sigma Lithium’s proactive approach to environmental permitting highlights its strategic foresight. Environmental assessments for the Barreiro mine began in January 2021, and the application for the license was submitted in July 2022. To foster community relations, the company initiated social capital expenditures in 2023, partnering with local municipalities to build a school and a childcare unit and collaborating with two NGOs to provide educational and cultural programs for children in the area.

This proactive strategy positions Sigma Lithium for long-term growth and aligns with its commitment to sustainable and responsible mining. The Triple Environmental License represents a regulatory framework that ensures the company is prepared for future operations at the Barreiro mine when needed.

Ana Cabral, CEO of Sigma Lithium, expressed her satisfaction with the approval, stating, “The unanimous decision to grant the construction, installation, and operational permits for the Barreiro mine underscores the trust placed in Sigma Lithium by the state of Minas Gerais. This license ensures the consistent supply of lithium feedstock for our Greentech Industrial Complex while reinforcing our dedication to sustainable and responsible mining practices. The approval also reflects the success of our proactive community engagement and early investment in social initiatives, which exemplify our commitment to making a positive impact on our future neighbors.”

Sigma Lithium’s achievement demonstrates its leadership in creating one of the most sustainable lithium operations globally, setting a benchmark for environmentally and socially responsible resource development.

Sigma Lithium is a global leader in producing chemical-grade lithium concentrate, committed to powering the next generation of electric vehicle batteries with a focus on carbon neutrality and sustainable social and environmental practices.