Abstract:

This report analyses the emissions related to batteries throughout the supply chain and over the full battery lifetime and highlights priorities for reducing emissions. Life cycle analysis of electric cars shows that they already offer emissions reductions benefits at the global level when compared to internal combustion engine cars. Further increasing the sustainability of battery supply chains, such as through recycling, can further enhance these benefits and reduce the need for primary critical minerals supply. Governments and industry are already taking steps towards improving battery sustainability and circularity, but further and more widespread efforts will be needed as the market scales up.