Everything seems predestined for the electrification be the absolute protagonist in the automotive future. It is said that it is the cleanest technology, which is why other alternatives are hindered and manufacturers have no choice but to promote it. However, there are issues that must also be taken into account and that concern the authorities. And it is that the electric car batteries they remain a problem and their recycling must be made more efficient if electrification is to make sense in the years to come.
The European Union wants to tighten the fence around the batteries that generate the most impact on the environment. In fact, from July 2024 manufacturers will be required to report the full carbon footprint of their product, from the extraction of materials to recycling. These data will be used to set a maximum CO2 limit which will come into effect from July 2027. Because, although these batteries are more sustainable than burning petroleum-based fuel, it is also important to reduce their negative effects on the ecosystem.
The new European Union law, which will also apply to fossil fuels, requires manufacturers to identify any impact generated during the production process. In the case of batteries, there are also new recycling targets. From 2027, manufacturers have to be able to recover 90% of the nickel and cobalt used, in addition to 50% of the lithium. On the other hand, from 2031 they are required to be able to reuse 95% of nickel and cobalt, and 80% of lithium.
It is seen as something positive for the industry, as it will guarantee that European manufacturers comply with these standards and will penalize batteries coming from other places when they use non-renewable energy. Investments will also be promoted to increase this recycling capacity and new jobs will be created in this activity. details are still missing on this new law of the European Union, which should be coming out in the summer of 2023, just one year before its establishment.
Source: Transport & Environment
