Authors:
Cristobal Bonelli & Marina Weinberg

During the Covid 19 pandemic, from March to September 2021, the "Diálogos de Litio, S.O.S.tenibilidad y Extractivismo en el desierto de Atacama" webinar series emerged as a pivotal platform for collaboration amidst the complexities and ambivalences of lithium extraction in the Atacama deserts. Utilizing Zoom, YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter, “Diálogos de Litio” facilitated inclusive dialogues, amplifying voices often marginalized, including researchers, policymakers, indigenous leaders, and environmental activists. It aimed to deepen awareness of lithium's environmental and social impacts, inform policy decisions, and engage stakeholders.

Our target audience encompassed Chilean researchers, policymakers, grassroots organizations, and local indigenous communities affected by lithium extraction. They were categorized into: a) invited speakers, including 22 experts from academia, environmental activism, indigenous leadership, and policymaking; b) academic networks, represented by two Chilean research centers; and c) webinar participants, from over 20 countries, including citizen groups, and people from the academia and government. By engaging diverse stakeholders, “Diálogos de Litio” aimed to influence research agendas and policy development, fostering greater awareness of sustainability challenges in Atacama. Implemented during the pandemic, the initiative adapted to incorporate stakeholder insights, reshaping fieldwork methodologies and impacting various sectors simultaneously.