Antofagasta de La Sierra, home to some of Argentina's most valuable lithium mines. Photo: Susi Maresca
This is a landscape now dominated by industrial process. Photo: Susi Maresca
Lithium extraction is leaving locals without one of their most prized commodities. Photo: Susi Maresca
The flats lie several thousands of metres above sea level. Photo: Susi Maresca
Residents say they've been excluded from important discussions about land-use and the future of the area. Photo: Susi Maresca
Camilo Condorí, a life-long resident of the salt flats. Photo: Susi Maresca
Increased extraction levels don't just have an adverse impact on the area's human population. Photo: Susi Maresca
Families have made these flats their home for generations.
Eight companies currently operate lithium mining plants in the region. Photo: Susi Maresca
Doctors have noted rises in heart defects amongst children who've grown up near the mines. Photo: Susi Maresca
Residents complain of lacking basic services, paying extortionate electricity and water rates, and are noticing increasing levels of pollution. Photo: Susi Maresca
Argentina is on track to be the world's second biggest lithium producer by 2022. Photo: Susi Maresca
Roman Guitián, who's great-grandfather discovered the body the salt pan is named after. Photo: Susi Maresca
Additional mining shrinks the salt flats, changing a landscape forever. Photo: Susi Maresca