Lithium Australia’s MD and CEO, Simon Linge, provided The Australian with an opinion editorial on the current state of battery disposal within Australia. This article was released on Monday 7 October with Mr Linge noting that under current practices large volumes may end up stored in warehouses and scrap yards, creating a serious fire risks. The article can be found below.
Lithium Australia’s innovative approach to lithium-ion battery recycling through their subsidiary, Envirostream, presents significant benefits for both the environment and the economy. As the demand for batteries surges, driven by the transition to clean energy and electric vehicles, battery waste is projected to increase by 20% each year. Currently, only 12% of this waste is recycled, highlighting a critical gap in sustainable practices. Envirostream’s capability to recover up to 95% of materials from spent batteries not only minimizes landfill impact but also mitigates the safety and environmental dangers associated with improper disposal. By establishing onshore recycling facilities, Lithium Australia facilitates local resource recovery, thus supporting Australia’s circular economy.
This approach not only helps to alleviate supply chain challenges in battery production but also creates jobs and promotes technological innovation in recycling processes. Overall, Lithium Australia is paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future through responsible battery management practices.