Electric vehicle batteries and the materials they need are a big topic nowadays. Here’s a quick look at what’s going on:
The supply chain for electric vehicle batteries and the critical materials needed to make them. (1)
Electric vehicle (EV) battery production involves a complex supply chain. Every battery needs mining, refining, and assembling different materials. These materials, like lithium, cobalt, and nickel, are essential for the battery to perform well and last long enough. Ensuring a steady supply of these materials is crucial for the growth of the EV market.
The issues around conflict minerals and how they affect battery material supply chains. (2)
Conflict minerals are mined in conditions of armed conflict and human rights abuses. Many of these minerals, like cobalt, are used in EV batteries. The supply chain for these materials can be complicated. Making sure these materials are sourced responsibly is very difficult. Manufacturers want to avoid supporting conflicts and human rights abuses.
How we can sustainably supply critical minerals, and the challenges involved. (3)
A sustainable supply of critical minerals ensures that mining doesn’t harm the environment or local communities. It also means finding ways to recycle materials from used batteries. But this is easier said than done. The technical and economic challenges of recycling and the growing demand for these minerals add to the issues.
Canada’s strategy on critical minerals. (4)
The Canadian government has a strategy to secure a reliable supply of critical minerals. The plan invests in mining projects, supports research and development, and works with international partners. The goal is to position Canada as a key player in the global supply of these essential materials.
The connection between the automotive supply chain and human rights abuses in certain regions. (5)
The production of some materials used in EV batteries is linked to serious human rights abuses, like forced labour and child labour. Companies need to build supply chains free from abuses with thorough audits. Plus, they must work with suppliers who adhere to ethical practices.
The impact of certain policies on conflict minerals and local communities. (6)
Policies like the Dodd-Frank Act aim to reduce the trade in conflict minerals by requiring companies to disclose their sources. But, these policies can have unintended consequences. They may end up reducing local economic opportunities for those relying on mining.
The complex economy of cobalt mining in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. (7)
The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is a major source of cobalt. But mining in the DRC is fraught with issues. Artisanal mining, often unregulated, can lead to dangerous working conditions and exploitation. Balancing the economic benefits of cobalt mining with improving working conditions is challenging.
How certain legislations might actually lead to more violence in mining regions. (8)
Legislation aimed at curbing the trade in conflict minerals can sometimes have the opposite effect. Policies may limit legal trade opportunities. This can increase the appeal of illegal mining, often controlled by armed groups. Frequently, trying to help ends up leading to increased violence.
Sustainable battery solutions for electric vehicles, including materials and policies. (9)
Developing sustainable battery solutions involves using abundant and easy-to-recycle materials. It also means creating policies that support research into new battery technologies and incentivize recycling old ones. Governments and companies need to work together to create a sustainable future for EV batteries.
Approaches to responsibly source metals and ensure they are conflict-free. (10)
Various certification programs ensure metals are responsibly sourced and conflict-free. These programs trace the origin of materials, conduct audits, and work with suppliers who adhere to ethical standards. By participating in these programs, companies help promote responsible sourcing practices.
In Summary
Policies like the Dodd-Frank Act address critical issues in the mining industry. Yet, they have complex and sometimes adverse effects on locals. The challenge lies in balancing economic benefits and ethical practices.
Sustainable battery solutions for electric vehicles offer a promising direction. But they require concerted efforts. Governments, companies, and certification programs must work together to ensure that materials are responsibly sourced and conflict-free. It will require cooperation to support technology and the welfare of mining communities.
References:
Barman, P. D. (2023). Electric Vehicle Battery Supply Chain and Critical Materials: A Brief Survey of State of the Art. Energies.
Deberdt, R. (2021). Conflict minerals and battery materials supply chains: A mapping review of responsible sourcing initiatives. The Extractive Industries and Society.
Dou, S. (2023). Critical mineral sustainable supply: Challenges and governance. Futures.
Government of Canada. (2022). The Canadian Critical Minerals Strategy.
Salcito, K. (2023). Automotive Supply Chain Links to the Uyghur Genocide: Reversing Growing Crisis. Business and Human Rights Journal.
Seay, L. (2012). What’s wrong with Dodd-Frank 1502? Conflict minerals, civilian livelihoods, and the unintended consequences of Western advocacy. Center for Global Development.
Sovacool, B. K. (2019). The precarious political economy of cobalt: Balancing prosperity, poverty, and brutality in artisanal and industrial mining in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Extractive Industries and Society.
Stoop, N. (2018). More legislation, more violence? The impact of Dodd-Frank in the DRC. PLOS One.
Yang, Z. (2022). Sustainable Electric Vehicle Batteries for a Sustainable World: Perspectives on Battery Cathodes, Environment, Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Life Cycle, and Policy. Advanced Energy Materials.
Young, S. B. (2015). Responsible sourcing of metals: certification approaches for conflict minerals and conflict-free metals. The International Journal of Life Cycle Assessment.
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