![](/images/news/cp/photos/business/cpt111040432_low.jpg?q=90 "In this Aug. 6, 2009 photo, high power Nanophospate Lithium Ion Cell batteries are shown in Livonia, Mich. Canada's environmental regulations have lagged behind the global rush to develop deposits of lithium, a rare metal found in the rechargeable batteries, says a new report. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP, Paul Sancya\")
In this Aug. 6, 2009 photo, high power Nanophospate Lithium Ion Cell batteries are shown in Livonia, Mich. Canada's environmental regulations have lagged behind the global rush to develop deposits of lithium, a rare metal found in the rechargeable batteries, says a new report. THE CANADIAN PRESS/AP, Paul Sancya\
July 02, 2012 - 1:42 PM
OTTAWA - Canada's mining regulations may be lagging behind the global rush to find lithium deposits, the metal that's inside millions of rechargeable batteries used in cellphones and laptops.
A new report for Environment Canada says existing regulations were written before lithium became such a hot commodity — and may need to be revisited.
Only one mine, in Manitoba, produces lithium ore in Canada, though a Quebec mine is slated to come on stream later this year and there are other proposals for Alberta.
The $18,000 study by a consultant notes Canada's federal regulations do not specifically refer to lithium-mining operations.
A spokesman for Environment Canada says there currently are no plans to change any environmental safeguards.
There's a worldwide hunt for lithium sources as experts predict the market for rechargeable batteries is set to ramp up over the next decade and more.
News from © The Canadian Press, 2012