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Lithium
Lithium
Lithium is a naturally occurring element that varies in concentration across the globe. Lithium has many uses including industrial use and pharmaceuticals. For industrial use, lithium plays a crucial role in the manufacturing of lithium-ion batteries. These batteries are essential components in many electronic devices like smartphones, laptops, tablets, and electric vehicles. As for pharmaceuticals, lithium carbonate is used as a mood stabilizer, particularly for those with BPD or bipolar disorder.
In recent years, there has been growing interest and research into the potential health effects of lithium at different concentrations in drinking water. Some studies suggest that lithium, in low concentrations, can contribute to mood stabilization and lower incidents of mental health issues. On the other hand, high concentrations of lithium can lead to issues like kidney and thyroid damage, developmental and reproductive effects, and other negative health impacts. Because of its varying affects, lithium in drinking water is a topic of ongoing research.
Where is it?
Lithium concentrations are generally very low and below levels considered harmful to human health across the state of Michigan. In areas where lithium is mined and extracted, such as parts of South America, higher concentrations are found. This is not a concern for the state of Michigan but due to its natural occurrence, it is always wise to test your water!
What is being done?
Lithium is on the EPAs UCMR5 list to better inform research and determine the possibility and type of health affects to humans from consumption through water. “The EPA has not established a non-regulatory drinking water Health Advisory or any regulatory standard for lithium in public drinking water supplies.” -EPA (Technical Fact Sheet: Lithium in Drinking Water)
Resources
- Technical Fact Sheet: Lithium in Drinking Water (EPA)
- Lithium: A review of pharmacology, clinical uses, and toxicity (ScienceDirect)
- USGS-led study estimates lithium in groundwater that can be used for drinking water (US Geological Survey)
- Lithium in US Groundwater (US Geological Survey)
Contact us
Call the Pollution Emergency Alerting System (PEAS) at 800-292-4706.