ネイティブが教える英会話のジェムスクール☆Teachers☆

The world’s largest salt flats (about 10,000 square kilometers in area) are located in Salar de Uyuni in the southwest portion of Bolivia. The area was once a group of prehistoric lakes, but has since dried up and is now covered by layers of salt crust. This salted area is very lithium rich, and when it rains forms a kind of large mirror for reflections.

I traveled to the area a few years ago, and took an early morning tour to watch the sun come up while overlooking the salt flats. The rising sun creates a stunning view that feels like you are on another planet. From the location where we witnessed the sun come up, there was no horizon or reference point in sight you can only see white salt on the ground and blue skies in the air. The reflections of yourself in the thin layer of rain water (when it rains in the spring) allow you to feel like a part of your surrounding. As the sun dances around you in your reflection it gives a feeling as in a unique and special light show. I have never experienced anything like it. It is a simple but amazing look through nature’s prism.

The lithium in the area is a lightweight metal (when mined from the salt) used in batteries that assist in the flow of electrical currents. This is considered a prime area for future energy sources that could power many machines, including electric vehicles. Many energy companies around the world have an interest in mining the area, but so far, the Bolivian government has not sold any area rights to a major corporation. The large storage capacity and easy recharging for the lithium batteries offer quite a potential source for harnessing and redirecting the world’s energy issues away from gas and oil.

Salar de Uyuni is a wonder to behold. If you ever get the chance to visit, I highly recommend it. You will not be disappointed!