The circular economy of electric vehicle batteries: a Finnish case study

Abstract

The automotive industry faces challenges because of the electrification of vehicles and the rapidly increasing need for electric vehicle batteries (EVBs). Raw materials availability is limited; however, there will also be a significant number of end-of-life (EOL) batteries. This creates various circular economy (CE) business opportunities for EVB manufacturers, third-party providers, and other stakeholders. However, not all CE solutions are sustainable or economically feasible. In this study, through the use of case studies, expert interviews, and a survey, we determined the current state of the EVB CE in Finland, the possible options for utilizing EOL vehicle batteries, and the greatest barriers for the EVB CE. We found that some EVB-related CE applications are not supported by the government and legislation, for example environmental regulations and building standards. CE opportunities include a shorter lead time for some components, which makes them attractive for EOL applications.

Integration of Circular Value Chains and Digitalization: A Focus on Lithium-Ion Battery Material Value Chain

“…Other challenges include environmental impacts (such as the high energy and resource requirements of battery production and the negative environmental impacts of battery disposal), economic challenges (such as the high cost of EV batteries, which can limit their adoption), and social challenges (such as the potential for social and human rights abuses in the mining and processing of EV battery materials) [11,13]. CE practices can potentially manage challenges regarding recycling and reusing EV LIBs [14]. Adopting a CE approach for the LIBs value chain can help address supply chain vulnerabilities, improve manufacturing efficiency, and promote sustainable end-of-life management, ultimately contributing to a more environmentally friendly and economically viable LIB ecosystem [11].…”

“…Design is critical in fostering circularity among the various stages of LIBs' value chain. Batteries designed to be easy to disassemble and recycle are more likely to be recycled at the end of their life [14]. There is a need to design LIBs to facilitate repair, disassembly, and recycling [13].…”