Water access tied to mining rights? New rule proposed.

Governments should link water protection rules to licenses for critical minerals, a new policy paper argues. The proposal says companies seeking permits to mine lithium, cobalt, and other key materials must first prove they will not harm local water supplies. Critical minerals are raw materials used in batteries, electronics, and clean energy technology. Demand for them is rising fast as countries race to build greener economies. Under the plan, mining companies would need to meet strict water standards before receiving a license. This includes protecting drinking water, limiting pollution, and reporting water use. Supporters say the rule would prevent damage to communities near mining sites. Critics warn that extra requirements could slow down projects and raise costs. They argue that faster permitting is needed to meet growing mineral demand. The proposal does not name specific countries. It calls on governments worldwide to adopt the measure voluntarily. No timeline for adoption has been set.