The problem also exists in the way we source materials for our livestyles. Mining is a huge environmental risk if not mitigated and regulated properly. You get tons of runoff that can poison the surrounding land. There are places in China that exist completely out of the creation of toxic byproducts. It's important to consider all of these things. That's why I get on anyone pushing for electric cars because until we come up with a better lithium alternative, the act of mining lithium is heavily environmentally-UNfriendly. In some regions of South America, nearby towns and villages have had their water sources completely obliterated due to nearby lithium mining activity.