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The Hidden Economic And Environmental Cost Of EV Batteries And How To Create A Sustainable Circular Economy

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–News Direct–

By Faith Ashmore, Benzinga

The global push towards electric vehicles (EVs) represents a pivotal shift in efforts to reduce carbon emissions worldwide. In 2022, transportation was responsible for approximately 50% of greenhouse gas emissions and 80% of air pollutants in California. For Californian lawmakers, the solution was simple a policy to advance carbon neutrality by phasing out the sale of vehicles powered by fossil fuels. While electric vehicles (EVs) are a great way to help decrease carbon emissions, what many are unaware of is that the battery industry is still a contributor to waste and pollution.

There are some challenges when using EV batteries as a solution to achieving carbon neutrality, due to the environmental impact caused by the mining and refining processes of materials such as nickel, manganese, cobalt, lithium and graphite. The production of anode and cathode active materials also involves energy-intensive processes that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.

However, while the lifecycle of EV batteries does generate waste, the overall environmental impact is less than that of fossil fuel-powered vehicles. Thats why embracing the recycling of batteries is crucial to overall sustainability. However, even the battery recycling industry is facing challenges in achieving sustainability. Some companies, such as Aqua Metals (NASDAQ: AQMS), are looking to change that.

Aqua Metals: Addressing Challenges Faced By The Recycling Industry

Traditionally, battery recycling has relied on methods like hydrometallurgy, which, while somewhat effective in recovering valuable metals, comes with significant environmental drawbacks. These methods use large quantities of chemicals that lead to substantial waste production, primarily sodium sulfate.

In response to these challenges, Aqua Metals has pioneered a radically different approach to battery recycling that it says aligns with the principles of a circular economy. By electrifying the recycling process, Aqua Metals patented AquaRefining technology eliminates the need for harsh chemical reactions used in traditional metal recovery. This innovative approach not only reduces the embedded emissions from chemical use but also entirely avoids the production of sodium sulfate waste.

Sodium Sulfate Waste

Aqua Metals shares that in the recycling process of lithium batteries, the main waste material is sodium sulfate, which is a byproduct of the chemical reactions used to separate metals during certain processes. To put it in perspective, Aqua Metals says a typical battery recycler generates around 2 to 2.5 tonnes of sodium sulfate for every tonne of battery material recycled. Considering that only 50% of the battery material contains valuable substances such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, copper and manganese, the company reports that this means that the amount of waste produced is four to five times greater than the valuable materials recovered. In other words, the recycling process falls short of true recycling and instead contributes to pollution with a small stream of recovered metals.

While regulators arent yet cracking down on these recycling issues, inefficient and polluting recycling practices are at risk of facing obstacles and threats as regulations do evolve to address these issues. While moving away from fossil fuels is an essential part of staying below the 2 Celsius threshold that scientists around the world are urging leaders and industries to adhere to, its also critical when thinking about how to change existing practices to effectively evolve into sustainable ones.

Can The EV Battery Industry Become More Sustainable?

Recycling batteries is part of the answer, but sustainable recycling is key. Companies like Aqua Metals are at the forefront of this transition, redefining the recycling landscape with innovative technologies that are helping deliver a path to net-zero battery recycling. The companys AquaRefining method significantly enhances the sustainability of the recycling process, offering numerous benefits, such as:

1. Reduced Environmental Impact: By eliminating chemical waste, AquaRefining drastically cuts down the pollution typically associated with battery recycling, helping to preserve ecosystems and reduce landfill usage.

2. Economic Efficiency: With lower operational costs due to the absence of chemical handling and waste disposal requirements, the company says AquaRefining presents a more cost-effective solution for recycling batteries. This efficiency is particularly advantageous as the global demand for batteries increases, necessitating more robust and economical recycling solutions.

3. Support for Domestic Supply Chains: AquaRefining contributes to building domestic supply chains for critical battery materials. As more countries and companies look to reduce dependencies on foreign mineral sources, having a reliable, domestically produced supply of recycled materials is invaluable.

The environmental and community impacts of sourcing critical minerals for the clean energy economy are well documented. By pioneering advancements in sustainable recycling technology, we are enabling the circular battery economy and decarbonizing large portions of the clean energy supply chain, setting a new paradigm for the industryone that minimizes the environmental impacts of critical minerals and offers equitable economic opportunities to host communities. These principles of a circular economy are essential to achieving our most ambitious goals to combat climate change and provide a blueprint for an inclusive energy transition that respects both the planet and its people, shares Aqua Metals Chief Business Officer, Dave McMurtry.

The company recently received the title of 'Leader in Sustainability' bestowed by the Economic Development Authority of Western Nevada (EDAWN) as part of its Existing Industry Awards. Its sustainable processes have garnered praise from U.S. Congressman Amodei and U.S. Senator Cortez-Masto, as well as accolades from the Office of Nevada Lieutenant Governor Anthony. Aqua Metals' pivotal approach to a sustainable circular supply chain for essential minerals is helping transform recycling as we know it.

Given the increasing reliance on battery technology and the imminent task of recycling millions of tons of lithium-ion batteries in the future, the implementation of eco-friendly recycling practices is critical. As the industry continues to evolve, Aqua Metals' innovative recycling process could not only offer a blueprint for future developments but also demonstrate the practical viability of environmentally friendly technology. By reducing the ecological footprint of battery recycling, Aqua Metals is not just processing materials it is shaping the future of energy and sustainability.

Featured photo by Josh Power on Unsplash.

Benzinga is a leading financial media and data provider, known for delivering accurate, timely, and actionable financial information to empower investors and traders.

This post contains sponsored content. This content is for informational purposes only and not intended to be investing advice.

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View source version on newsdirect.com: https://newsdirect.com/news/the-hidden-economic-and-environmental-cost-of-ev-batteries-and-how-to-create-a-sustainable-circular-economy-180439948

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Press Release

UVKXE Releases Anti-Scam Guide, Enhancing User Security Protections

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DENVER — Recently, the globally renowned cryptocurrency trading platform UVKXE has published its latest anti-scam guide to address the escalating threats of online scams, establishing a comprehensive protective barrier for users worldwide. The guide focuses on various scamming tactics prevalent in the cryptocurrency sector, highlighting what users should be aware of during transactions and asset management, while also providing effective preventive measures.

Kevin Anderson, CEO of UVKXE, noted: “As the cryptocurrency market continues to expand, more cybercriminals are turning their attention to cryptocurrency users, developing sophisticated scam techniques. As a well-known platform in the cryptocurrency trading field, UVKXE has a responsibility to help users identify and mitigate these potential risks. Through the release of this anti-scam guide, we aim to further enhance user awareness and safeguard their digital asset security.”

The guide outlines the common characteristics of these scams, such as phishing emails that typically use UVKXE or similar official-sounding names, along with forged logos and links, to deceive users into providing their login credentials and sensitive information. It also advises users to always choose official channels when downloading applications to avoid malicious software. Furthermore, UVKXE emphasizes that the platform will never proactively request users to provide sensitive information such as passwords or verification codes in any form.

In addition to the anti-scam guide, UVKXE will launch a series of interactive activities, utilizing community forums and video tutorials to educate users about safety knowledge and help them recognize and respond to potential threats. The UVKXE security team stated that these activities will not only provide real-time updates on scams but also offer users opportunities for direct communication and inquiries.

The investment in technology and education is reflected not only in the publication of the anti-scam guide but also in daily operations and maintenance. Kevin Anderson concluded: “Every protective measure and security technology implemented by UVKXE is designed to ensure the safety of user assets. In the future, we will continue to advance this mission, providing users with safer and more convenient cryptocurrency trading services.”

Media Contact:
Company Name: UVKXE CRYPTO TECH CO.,LTD.
Company website: https://www.uvkxe.co
Contact person’s full name: Mayang
Email id: mayang@uvkxe.co

Disclaimer: This content is provided by sponsor. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

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UVKXE Clarification Statement: A Legally Compliant Trading Platform with International Accreditation

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DENVER — Recently, the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) published a list on its official website of cryptocurrency trading platforms that have not met its local registration requirements, mentioning UVKXE. UVKXE takes this matter seriously and wishes to clarify its credentials and compliance status to its users.

Global Compliance Credentials of UVKXE

UVKXE is committed to operating under legal and compliant principles, upholding a user-first core value. The platform has obtained several certifications from international authoritative regulatory bodies, including but not limited to:

U.S. MSB License
UVKXE has obtained the MSB license issued by the U.S. FinCEN. This certification represents the highest recognition by the U.S. government for financial service institutions, ensuring that UVKXE can legally conduct cryptocurrency-related business.

U.S. SEC License
As one of the few cryptocurrency trading platforms registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), UVKXE complies with securities and investment-related legal regulations, providing users with a safer and more transparent investment environment.

Background on the Malaysian Public List

The list published by the Securities Commission Malaysia mainly targets trading platforms that have not met local registration requirements, such as Binance and Bursa Malaysia, rather than denying the platform legality. UVKXE has obtained multiple authoritative licenses internationally, and its compliance is beyond doubt. UVKXE is in communication with relevant departments to understand local specific regulations and to advance the registration process, ensuring compliance with local market requirements.

Commitment to Legal Compliance and User-Centric Values

UVKXE will use this event as an opportunity to further enhance its global compliance framework, actively adapting to regulatory environments in various countries, and providing users with more professional and diversified financial services. We sincerely thank all users for their trust and support! UVKXE promises that no matter where it operates, the platform will always adhere to the core philosophy of “user-first”, moving together with global users towards a safer, more open, and transparent new era of the digital economy.

Media Contact:
Company Name: UVKXE CRYPTO TECH CO.,LTD.
Company website: https://www.uvkxe.co
Contact person’s full name: Mayang
Email id: mayang@uvkxe.co

Disclaimer: This content is provided by sponsor. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

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UVKXE Strengthens Security Strategy, Leading Innovations in Anti-Scam Technology for Crypto Platforms

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DENVER — Recently, the globally recognized cryptocurrency trading platform UVKXE officially announced the completion of its latest security system upgrade. This upgrade significantly enhances the cybersecurity defenses of the platform and introduces cutting-edge anti-scam technologies. Through this technological update, UVKXE demonstrates its commitment to user asset security and proactive measures against potential future cyber threats.

Kevin Anderson, CEO of UVKXE, stated: “User trust is the foundation of UVKXE, and ensuring the security of user assets is always our top priority. This security system upgrade incorporates AI deep learning, real-time risk control, and efficient anomaly detection algorithms, aiming to create a safe and trustworthy trading environment for users. We will continue to optimize the security measures for user assets, ensuring that every user can trade confidently on UVKXE.”

The focus of this security system upgrade is primarily on anti-scam technologies. In response to the ever-evolving online threats and scam tactics in recent years, UVKXE has strengthened its multi-layered protective mechanisms, effectively enhancing the security and responsiveness of the system. The upgrade introduces AI-driven anti-scam technology, which intelligently analyzes user behavior through deep learning algorithms, allowing for rapid identification and isolation of suspected scamming activities. The AI anti-scam system can monitor and analyze large volumes of trading data in real time, immediately freezing any suspicious transactions or account activities to safeguard user assets.

Kevin Anderson further explained: “Traditional anti-scam methods often rely on post-event analysis, whereas the new system of UVKXE can identify risks promptly before incidents occur, taking immediate action to prevent losses.”

In terms of anomaly detection, the system of UVKXE combines the transaction histories, asset conditions, login locations, and other multidimensional data of users to accurately pinpoint potential security vulnerabilities. Through anomaly detection technology, each user login and transaction can be monitored in real time, with timely alerts prompting users to confirm actions, further enhancing the security of the platform.

Kevin Anderson concluded: “We hope every user can enjoy a secure trading experience on UVKXE. By continually optimizing our security strategies, we aim to provide a safer and more convenient cryptocurrency trading experience for our users.”

Media Contact:
Company Name: UVKXE CRYPTO TECH CO.,LTD.
Company website: https://www.uvkxe.co
Contact person’s full name: Mayang
Email id: mayang@uvkxe.co

Disclaimer: This content is provided by sponsor. The statements, views and opinions expressed in this column are solely those of the content provider. The information provided in this press release is not a solicitation for investment, nor is it intended as investment advice, financial advice, or trading advice. It is strongly recommended you practice due diligence, including consultation with a professional financial advisor, before investing in or trading cryptocurrency and securities. Please conduct your own research and invest at your own risk.

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Disclaimer: The views, suggestions, and opinions expressed here are the sole responsibility of the experts. No Digi Observer journalist was involved in the writing and production of this article.

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