Alaska graphite mine advances without tribal consent

A proposed graphite mine in western Alaska is moving forward without legally required consultations with nearby Inupiaq communities, according to Grist and Alaska Public Media. Canadian company Graphite One plans to mine one of the world’s largest graphite deposits in the Kigluaik Mountains for batteries and strategic minerals, despite objections from the tribal governments of Teller, Brevig Mission and Mary’s Igloo.

The project, fast-tracked under the federal FAST-41 program, has accelerated permitting and environmental reviews. Tribal members say the process has marginalized their input, violating free, prior and informed consent under the U.N. Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Residents also raised concerns about infrastructure, environmental risks and impacts on hunting and fishing grounds. Federal and state officials have provided limited oversight, leaving communities responsible for monitoring potential violations.