Summary
- Rapid transition to electric vehicles needed for decarbonization and global temperature control
- Mining for minerals used in EVs can lead to human rights risks and environmental harm
- Companies like BYD, Geely Auto, Hyundai, GM, and Mitsubishi lack transparency in supply chain mapping
- All companies in EV battery supply chain have a responsibility to respect human rights
- Companies like BMW, Ford, Stellantis, Tesla, and VW Group have made progress, but more action is needed to address human rights risks
Article
The urgent need for a rapid transition from fossil fuel-powered vehicles to electric vehicles in order to accelerate decarbonization and combat global temperature rise comes with a hidden cost, according to Amnesty International. Mining for the minerals used in electric vehicles can have significant risks for both people and the environment. Previous research has shown how industrial cobalt mining in the Democratic Republic of Congo is linked to forced evictions. Car companies are being urged to use their leverage as global minerals buyers to influence mining companies and smelters to mitigate human rights risks.
A recent study on supply chain mapping disclosures found that companies like BYD, Geely Auto, Hyundai, General Motors, and Mitsubishi Motors scored poorly and failed to provide detailed information about their supply chains. For example, BYD does not disclose specific smelter, refiner, or mine site names, while Geely Auto only provided general supplier locations without specifying mineral extraction sites. Hyundai and Mitsubishi Motors also lacked transparency by not identifying mine sites for cobalt, copper, lithium, and nickel. This lack of transparency makes it difficult for stakeholders to verify how these operations impact nearby communities.
All companies involved in the electric vehicle battery supply chain have a responsibility to respect human rights wherever they operate. Companies must implement a human rights due diligence process to identify, prevent, mitigate, and account for any adverse human rights impacts they may cause, contribute to, or be linked to through their operations, products, or services. While some companies have taken positive steps to align their policies with international human rights standards, more needs to be done. Companies like BMW, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Stellantis, Tesla, and VW Group were among the higher scorers but could still improve by addressing human rights risks and providing effective remedies to affected people.
As the global transition to electric vehicles gains momentum and drives global competition and profit, Amnesty International is calling on all car makers to improve their human rights due diligence efforts in line with international standards. The organization is also urging governments to strengthen their human rights due diligence regulations for companies within their jurisdictions. Companies that are lagging behind in human rights due diligence efforts need to work harder and faster to demonstrate that they take human rights seriously. The industry must ensure that electric vehicles do not leave a legacy of human rights abuses and instead drive a just energy future that leaves no one behind.
In conclusion, the transition to electric vehicles is essential for combating climate change, but it must be done responsibly to avoid human rights abuses associated with mining for minerals. Companies in the EV battery supply chain must be transparent about their sourcing and operations to allow for proper oversight and accountability. By implementing human rights due diligence processes and aligning policies with international standards, companies can ensure that their operations do not harm communities or the environment. Governments also play a crucial role in regulating companies and holding them accountable for their human rights responsibilities. Ultimately, the industry must work together to drive a just energy future that prioritizes human rights and sustainability.
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