Recycling could play a key role in the energy transition | FT Rethink

#RecyclingKey to #GreenEnergy #MetalSustainability Key Takeaways:

Enhanced recycling can notably reduce the anticipated 2030 metal supply gap for the green transition.
Current low recycling rates highlight the urgency for innovative recycling technologies and policies.
Future recycling advancements could fulfill the majority of new demand for clean energy technologies by 2050.

Further Insights

Metal Demand: Metals like copper, nickel, and lithium crucial for green energy transitions are facing predicted shortages. By 2030, the demand for lithium will be 30% higher than supply, with copper not far behind.
Recycling Potential: The Energy Transitions Commission suggests that extensive recycling and more efficient use could significantly narrow the supply gaps. Currently, the U.S. recycles less than 5% of used lithium-ion batteries, reflecting a global challenge.
Emerging Technologies: New recycling techniques, such as a process developed by France's Atomic Program, can recover valuable components from electric battery cells. These advances are crucial for sustainable materials management.
Policy Framework: Critical raw materials act in Europe and regulations in China and the U.S. are examples of efforts to boost recycling rates. Policy support is essential for enabling a circular economy in the clean energy sector.
Mining vs. Recycling: Despite the push for recycling, a significant increase in mining activities is inevitable to meet the demand for essential metals by 2030. Strategic recycling, however, can mitigate some of the environmental impacts.

Closing Thoughts: While recycling is not the silver bullet for the green transition's metal supply challenges, it plays a critical role. How can businesses and policymakers further incentivize recycling to bridge the supply-demand gap?