As the world moves towards electrification, demand for minerals used in battery production such as lithium, graphite, cobalt, and nickel is set to increase substantially, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the World Bank. This will require additional mining activity which could have negative impacts on the environment and surrounding communities. While mineral recycling and reuse may help reduce demand, the exact increase in demand will depend on progress in recycling, recovery, and demand reductions.
Governments and companies can adopt voluntary mechanisms like the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) to set more stringent standards and ensure consistent practices throughout the battery supply chain. Circular economy practices can also reduce demand for new mining by providing manufacturers with a greater source of recycled or reused materials. Policymakers can incentivize or require manufacturers to source these materials and promote sustainable mobility, transit options, and land use.
Increasing investment in processing facilities and programs and targeting different supply chain points can also help reduce the need for new mining. These measures can help mitigate the negative impacts of increased mining activity on the environment and communities.
Source: Global state of sustainable Electric Vehicle Batteries | Berkeley, CIC energiGUNE
