Environmental Assessment of Ukraine's Lithium Reserves: Industrial Opportunities and Impact on Sustainable Development

Lithium is a key element in modern energy and electronics, particularly in the production of rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles and energy storage systems. Ukraine possesses significant lithium reserves, which could become a strategic resource for the country's economic development. However, the extraction of any mineral resources is a complex process that impacts the environment, requires large amounts of resources, and can cause significant ecological losses. Despite modern technologies and methods allowing for the minimization of this impact, it still remains significant. Therefore, this study was conducted, aimed at the environmental assessment of Ukraine's lithium deposits, analysis of their industrial potential, and subsequent impact on sustainable development. A detailed analysis of four major deposits was carried out, focusing on ore quality and the content of harmful impurities. The qualitative and quantitative content of these impurities was determined and compared with other large global deposits. For Ukraine, which has the potential to utilize cleaner sources of lithium with lower contents of heavy metals and radioactive elements, there is an opportunity to develop effective and environmentally sustainable extraction methods. This includes implementing strategies for the rational use of resources, investing in the latest technologies, and actively collaborating with international experts to exchange best practices in environmentally friendly extraction. Through this, Ukraine has every chance to become an example of a responsible approach to mining activities, taking into account the demands of modern environmental challenges. The author outlines directions for further research, including: the development of the lithium industry in Ukraine requires the integration of innovative technologies for reducing environmental impact, a comprehensive assessment of social impact, the introduction of environmental monitoring systems and the adaptation of international experience for the sustainable development of the industry.