Photographer Tom Hegen’s aerial eye reveals the true scale of the critical mineral age
From the air, the vivid lithium fields of Chile’s Atacama Desert look like an intricate computer circuit board, hinting at the technological destination of this increasingly crucial mineral. Photographer Tom Hegen has spent the past six years documenting some of the world’s most significant mining regions that supply the critical minerals needed for modern technologies […]
Photographer Tom Hegen has spent the past six years capturing aerial images of some of the world's most significant mining regions, revealing the immense scale of the critical mineral age. From the air, Chile's Atacama Desert's lithium fields appear like a complex computer circuit board, hinting at the mineral's growing importance.
Hegen uses small aircraft, drones, and high-resolution cameras to capture these landscapes in detailed, immersive scenes. His work highlights the far-reaching impacts of mineral extraction, including contaminated waterways, disintegrating settlements, and smothered fishing grounds. "An elevated perspective offers a powerful way to observe, understand, and reflect on how we have transformed the Earth's landscapes," Hegen said.
Lithium mining in the Atacama Desert, Chile, 2021. Lithium, essential for electric batteries, is projected to see global demand increase 25-fold compared to current levels. Hegen's interest in the energy transition's connection to critical minerals began with a photographic project on climate change in the Arctic. While research indicates expanded mining might reduce overall mining needs, the demand for these minerals remains high.
Written by urgent.news from Mongabay's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
