Copilot Search Branding Large Lithium-Source Lake in Central Tibet The large lithium-rich lake in central Tibet is Zabuye Lake, located in Shigatse Prefecture, and it is one of the most important sources of lithium carbonate in China. Location and Geography Zabuye Lake lies in the Shigatse Prefecture of the Tibetan Plateau, at an elevation of about 4,421 meters (14,505 feet) Wikipedia. It is a hypersaline, landlocked soda lake divided into two sub-basins — northern (98 km²) and southern (149 km²) — connected by a narrow channel Wikipedia. The lake is fed by meltwater from the Rianglinag Mountains and receives water from rain and groundwater Wikipedia. Lithium Content and Significance Zabuye Lake is famous for its high lithium concentration — about 1.53 g/L, which is nearly the solubility limit of lithium carbonate in water and second only to Chile’s Atacama Salt Lake globally Wikipedia+1. This makes it a major source of lithium carbonate (Li₂CO₃), the primary lithium mineral used in batteries. The lake’s brine also contains borax, mirabilite, and other alkali salts Wikipedia. The lake’s name is linked to the mineral zabuyelite, a lithium carbonate discovered here in 1987, and mining operations began in 2004–2005 Wikipedia. In 2008, the salt mine at Zabuye Lake was considered China’s largest lithium source Wikipedia. Strategic Importance Zabuye Lake’s lithium resources are strategically vital for China’s electric vehicle (EV) supply chain and renewable energy transition. The region’s high-grade lithium deposits help reduce reliance on imports from Australia and South America, strengthening China’s position in the global clean energy market discoveryalert.com.au. Geological Context The Tibetan Plateau’s unique geology — shaped by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates — has created a variety of rare minerals and lithium-rich salt lakes. Zabuye Lake is one of 251 salt lakes in Tibet, and its lithium content is a result of complex hydrochemical and tectonic processes Wikipedia+1. In summary: Zabuye Lake in central Tibet is not only a scenic high-altitude salt lake but also a key lithium resource hub, with lithium concentrations among the highest in the world, making it a cornerstone of China’s lithium production.