The Appalachian Mountains hold enough lithium to make 500 billion cellphones, researchers discover
Researchers from the U.S. Geological Survey have discovered that the Appalachian Mountains contain 2.5 million tons of lithium, enough to produce 500 billion cellphones. This significant reserve could reduce the U.S.'s reliance on lithium imports, which currently account for more than half of its usage. However, the environmental impact of mining these resources remains uncertain.
- ▪The Appalachian Mountains hold 2.5 million tons of lithium, sufficient for 500 billion cellphones.
- ▪Mining this lithium could decrease U.S. dependence on imports from countries like China and Argentina.
- ▪Currently, the U.S. has only one operational lithium mine in Clayton Valley, Nevada.
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Planet Earth Geology The Appalachian Mountains hold enough lithium to make 500 billion cellphones, researchers discover Researchers with the U.S. Geological Survey estimated that the ancient Appalachians mountain system holds 2.5 million tons of the critical element lithium. By Sascha Pare published 20 May 2026 in News When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here’s how it works. The Appalachians hold vast amounts of lithium that could help reduce U.S. reliance on imports from other countries.
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