Is China taking the lead in EV battery recycling?

China's taking the lead in EV battery recycling. Photo: Asia Times Files / X Screengrab / AFP As the electric vehicle (EV) market surges worldwide, battery recycling and circular economy initiatives have become essential to the global green transition.

Why should China invest in battery recycling?

China’s innovation and investment in battery recycling represent both a pragmatic response to resource scarcity and a forward-looking exploration of circular economy potential. As the global green transition gathers pace, the ability to close the loop on critical resources like EV batteries will become an increasingly valuable asset.

How can China reduce the environmental impact of EV battery production?

However, China’s ambitions go beyond control over raw materials. By fostering a robust battery recycling industry, China is working to reduce its reliance on newly mined minerals while simultaneously lowering the environmental impact of EV battery production.

How can Chinese companies repurpose used batteries?

Chinese companies like CATL and GEM Co, Ltd have taken the lead in the battery recycling market, using advanced technologies to maximize the reuse rate of critical materials. These companies employ cutting-edge extraction methods to reclaim valuable components from used batteries, which can then be reintegrated into the production cycle.

Can China build a closed-loop supply chain for EV battery recycling?

As the electric vehicle (EV) market surges worldwide, battery recycling and circular economy initiatives have become essential to the global green transition. China, already a dominant player in EV battery production, is now expanding its reach into the battery recycling sector, aiming to build a closed-loop supply chain.

Will China's role in battery recycling shape the future of green tech?

China’s role in battery recycling is likely to shape the future of green tech and thus the dynamics of international economic power in the years to come.