Summary
– Deep-sea mining for manganese nodules is becoming a reality, impacting the sustainability profile of EV batteries
– Sustainable EV batteries are those used in electric commuter buses, group transit vans, passenger trains, electric bikes, and scooters
– Battery-swapping, recycling, and repurposing can help extend battery lifespan and reduce demand for materials
– Deep-sea mining for manganese could accelerate demand for critical materials for EV batteries
– Mitigation solutions are being explored for the environmental impact of deep-sea mining, while research continues for sustainable EV batteries using alternative materials like graphene
Article
Deep-sea mining is becoming a reality, with Japanese researchers discovering a large cache of manganese nodules on the ocean floor. This raises concerns about the sustainability of EV batteries, as manganese is a key component in their production. To make EV batteries more sustainable, some suggestions include using them in electric commuter buses, group transit vans, and passenger trains, as well as adopting new wireless, in-road EV charging technology.
The market for smaller cars in the US could also impact battery size and demand for materials, along with emerging battery-swapping technologies and the EV battery recycling market. Alternative EV battery formulas, flow batteries, and fuel cells could also help reduce the demand for critical materials. However, the International Energy Agency predicts a significant increase in demand for manganese due to the growing EV market.
Deep-sea mining for manganese nodules has become a topic of discussion, with Japanese researchers planning a large-scale harvesting operation as early as 2025. Although the nodules are relatively easy to extract from the ocean floor, the environmental impacts of deep-sea mining are a concern. Mining operations could disrupt marine life, including killing off organisms and stirring up sediment, which can have long-lasting effects on underwater ecosystems.
Studies have shown that deep-sea mining can have severe consequences on marine habitats, with little evidence of recovery after disturbances. Despite calls for moderation in deep-sea mining activities, the industry is moving forward with plans for mining operations. As the demand for sustainable EV batteries grows, companies are exploring new materials and technologies to reduce the environmental impact of battery production.
Research into graphene-based EV batteries and graphene-enhanced lithium-sulfur batteries could provide long-term solutions for sustainable energy storage. Companies like Lamborghini and Lyten are developing innovative battery technologies that eliminate the need for cobalt, manganese, and nickel in battery production. By supporting advancements in battery technology and sustainable mobility, electric vehicle fans can help drive the transition towards a more environmentally-friendly transportation sector.
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