IAEA and Chile Forge Partnerships to Combat Microplastic Pollution and Advance Lithium Mining

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and the Government of Chile have signed two groundbreaking agreements to tackle microplastic pollution in Antarctica and harness nuclear technology for sustainable lithium mining. IAEA Director General Rafael Mariano Grossi and Chilean officials inked the deals on Tuesday, marking a major breakthrough in addressing critical environmental issues and advancing clean energy solutions.

Why this matters: The collaboration between IAEA and Chile sets a precedent for international cooperation in combating environmental pollution and promoting sustainable energy solutions, which can have far-reaching implications for global efforts to address climate change. The collaboration between IAEA and Chile sets a precedent for international cooperation in combating environmental pollution and promoting sustainable energy solutions, which can have far-reaching implications for global efforts to address climate change. By leveraging nuclear technology, this partnership can also pave the way for more efficient and environmentally friendly extraction of lithium, a vital component in the transition to clean energy.

Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed as part of the IAEA's flagship NUTEC Plastics initiative, the two parties will strengthen cooperation in combating microplastic pollution in Antarctica. This partnership builds upon the IAEA's existing work in addressing plastic pollution in oceans, focusing on utilizing nuclear technologies to generate data on the distribution of marine microplastics.

In a separate agreement, the IAEA signed its first-ever deal on nuclear technology and lithium with Luis Huerta of the Chilean Nuclear Energy Commission (CCHEN), witnessed by Chile's Energy Undersecretary Luis Felipe Ramos. This collaboration aims to leverage nuclear technology to enhance lithium mining processes, paving the way for wider regional support from the IAEA. Lithium, a vital component in electric vehicle batteries, has significant applications in the fusion and energy sectors.

During hisvisitsto Chile, Director General Grossi met with Chilean officials to discuss cooperation on these key issues. He congratulated CCHEN on its 60th anniversary, praising its"impactful work with nuclear that advances Chile's progress and well-being. Grossi highlighted the importance of CCHEN's reactor in producing vital radioisotopes for healthcare, stating, "Nuclear science boosts Chile's development in areas like health, food, security, and environment. I look forward to furthering our collaboration."

The IAEA's partnerships with Chile extend beyond environmental protection and lithium mining. Grossi also met with Health Minister Ximena Aguilera Sanhueza to discuss expanding cancer care through training and nuclear medicine as part of the IAEA's Rays of Hope: Cancer Care for All initiative. This collaboration highlights the IAEA's commitment to utilizing nuclear technology for the betterment of human health and well-being.

Looking ahead, Chile is set to host the International Conference on Effective Nuclear and Radiation Regulatory Systems in January 2026, the first such conference to be held in Latin America. This event reflects the region's growing role in global nuclear safety and regulation, as countries increasingly recognize the potential of nuclear technology in addressing pressing challenges.

The agreements between the IAEA and Chile represent a significant milestone in the global effort to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development. Through international cooperation and the application of innovative nuclear technologies, the world can make strides in combating pollution, advancing clean energy, and improving lives worldwide.

Key Takeaways

• IAEA and Chile sign agreements to combat microplastic pollution in Antarctica.
• Partnership aims to harness nuclear technology for sustainable lithium mining.
• Collaboration sets precedent for international cooperation on environmental issues.
• Nuclear technology to enhance lithium mining processes and support clean energy.
• IAEA and Chile to expand cooperation on cancer care, nuclear medicine, and more.