Sergio Sanchez

Graduate Student Research Funding | 2023 - 2024 Academic Year

Replicability of the Favorable Conditions of Lithium Extraction in the Atacama Region

The clean energy transition is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to reduce carbon emissions and develop communities equitably and inclusively. If not done correctly, it can exacerbate the global south's complex socio-ecological issues. Lithium, vital in Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries for Zero Emission Vehicles and battery storage, is mainly found in Chile and Argentina. In a complex geopolitical environment, the USA has prioritized energy security, and sourcing critical minerals from allies is essential. This research will create a (fs/QCA) to examine lithium extraction's favorable 'causal conditions' in the Atacama Region, Mexico, and the USA.

Sergio Sanchez, Emmett Interdisciplinary Program in Environment and Resources (E-IPER)

Sergio Sánchez (he/him) is a 3rd year Ph.D. student in the E-IPER. Sánchez is an environmental advocate and believes that energy policy around the clean energy transition should center on the unique qualities of the communities, recognize past harms, and amplify the voices of those most marginalized by the current energy system. His research aims to put equity at the center of energy policy and to accelerate the clean energy transition. Sergio holds a bachelor's degree in international business from the Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education in Mexico, an LLB from the National Autonomous University of Mexico, and an LLM in environmental law & policy from Stanford Law School. Before coming to Stanford to pursue his Ph.D., he worked as an energy advocate at the Natural Resources Defense Council's San Francisco office.

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