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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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BYDFi to List GOAT Token, Exclusive Rewards for New Traders

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BYDFi, one of Forbes’ top 10 Crypto Exchanges, has announced the listing of Goatseus Maximus (GOAT) .

Celebrating this new listing, BYDFi is offering exclusive, limited-time rewards to both new and existing traders: share 2,000 USDT bonus + 1,000 GOAT!

Full details about these rewards and how to qualify are available on [official announcement].

What is Goatseus Maximus (GOAT)?

Goatseus Maximus (GOAT), the first meme coin on the Solana blockchain managed by an artificial intelligence known as “Truth of Terminal,” is breaking new ground in the world of digital assets. With a significant investment from Marc Andreessen(co-founder of a16z), GOAT has gained notable backing that highlights its potential to reshape the digital economy. The token is currently trading at $0.4316/ token with an impressive market capitalization of $432,79M. Despite its recent launch in the crypto market just a few days ago, Goatseus Maximus has quickly become the talk of the crypto town. One reason is that its coin price has surged 10,000 times in the past five days.

About BYDFi

Established in 2020, BYDFi is a top-tier crypto exchange recognized by Forbes and trusted by millions of users worldwide. Endorsed by CoinMarketCap and CoinGecko, it is known for its professionalism, innovation, and exceptional security. The platform offers more than 600 cryptocurrencies for spot trading and advanced options like 200x leverage on perpetual contracts. BYDFi prioritizes user security, provides 0% trading fees, and facilitates easy crypto purchases in partnership with Banxa, Transak, and Mercury. Its wide range of trading tools enhances the trading experience and makes BYDFi an ideal choice for crypto traders worldwide.

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Chloe@bydfi.com

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Protecting the Green and Beautiful Homeland to Make for Biodiversity

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Wenshan Prefecture is recognized as a treasure trove of species and genetic resources, both in China and globally. The academic community regards it as the “center of ancient plant distribution,” and it is the origin and modern distribution center for the Magnoliaceae family. This region is also known as the “Hometown of Magnolias in China.” Wenshan is home to extensive subtropical evergreen broad-leaved forests, karst forests, and unique cave ecosystems. It has been hailed as “An Oasis on the Karst Landform,”and “A Paradise of Biodiversity,”making it one of the most bio-diverse areas in Yunnan Province. In recent years, Wenshan Prefecture has been accelerating efforts to enhance its biodiversity protection capabilities, strengthening ecological space management, and effectively safeguarded the key ecosystems, habitats of rare and endangered wildlife, scenic areas, and biodiversity-rich regions.

Practicing the Green Development Concept to Achieve Significant Ecological Protection Results

Since 2011, Wenshan Prefecture has completed afforestation efforts covering 8.776 million mu (approximately 5.85 million hectares). Compared to 2016, the area of rocky desertification land has decreased by 226,800 hectares, with a forest coverage rate of 36.71% and the grassland vegetation coverage reaching 87.3%. Across the region, 27 nature reserves have been established, covering an area of 184,100 hectares, accounting for 5.86% of the total land area. Among these, there are 12 national-level reserves, 14 of provincial-level, and 1 of prefectural-level.

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Wenshan Prefecture currently has 416 recorded terrestrial wild animal species, of which 116 are listed under national key protection. There are 22 species of wild animals under first-class national protection, such as the slow loris, pangolin, and forest musk deer. Additionally, there are 94 species under second-class national protection, including the short-tailed monkey, Chinese goral, and silver pheasant. The region also boasts 7,907 species of wild vascular plants, with 224 species included in the national key protection list, representing 20.34% of the country’s total. There are 24 species of first-class nationally protected wild plants, such as Parashorea chinensis and Wenshan Red Orchid, and 186 species of second-class nationally protected plants, such as Aristolochia delavayi and Bole Tree. Wenshan has 57 plants species of extremely small populations, accounting for 47.5% of the national total and 56.44% of the provincial total respectively. The region also boasts 265 endemic plants, such as Manglietiastrum sinicum, Chinese Swamp Cypress, Michelia chapensis, Phoebe puwenensis, and Camellia reticulata. Moreover, Wenshan has 24 tea plant germplasm resource populations, covering an area of approximately 12,000 hectares with about 460,000 individual plants.

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Leading in Biodiversity Protection to Cement Ecological Security

Efforts have been made to enhance the monitoring and surveying of wild animal resources. In 2023, through sample line surveys, the Wenshan National Nature Reserve monitored 24 wild animal species, including the slow loris, pygmy loris, pangolin, masked palm civet, leopard cat, silver pheasant, golden pheasant, Yunnan Warty Newt, and Starry Torrent Frog. The monitoring recorded 61 bird species with 147 individuals, and 41 amphibian and reptile species with 341 individuals. Infrared cameras captured images of 20 species of ground-dwelling mammals from 9 families across 4 orders, and 58 bird species from 19 families across 5 orders. Among these, there were 2 species of second-class nationally protected wild mammals and 12 species of second-class nationally protected birds.

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In addition, rare and endangered plants such as Manglietiastrum sinicum, Acer yangbiense, and Cycas debaoensis have been introduced through experimental planting, with over 167 Manglietiastrum sinicum saplings, over 100 Acer yangbiense saplings, and over 30 Cycas debaoensis saplings planted. In collaboration with the Kunming Institute of Botany, Chinese Academy of Sciences, a baseline survey was completed for one hectare of mossy dwarf forest vegetation in the reserve. This survey provides a solid foundation for future re-evaluation and the assessment of ecosystem changes. Surveys were also conducted on 11 vegetation community sample plots and 13 key protected species plots, resulting in the collection of over 1,000 samples.

Utilizing Scientific Protection Achievements to Promote Harmonious Coexistence Between Man and Nature

Wenshan Prefecture has been actively working to shape a demonstration base for modern plateau agriculture focusing on the traditional Sanqi (Panax notoginseng) Chinese herbal medicine industry and the integrated development of grain, fruit, vegetable, and livestock farming. These efforts aim to promote sustainable and healthy agricultural development. Additionally, the region is fostering new integrated development models that combine culture, sports, tourism, and wellness, creating new scenarios, industries, and brands that inject fresh vitality into the tourism industry.

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The modern agricultural development represented by green food achieved vigorous growth. Wenshan has completed the construction of 117 demonstration areas of the “Six One-Hundred Bases” and 93 newly certified agricultural products under the “Three Products and One Standard” system. 14 provincial-level industrial bases have received recognition of  “Green Food Brand” standards.

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Focusing on the goal of becoming the global “City of Sanqi(Panax notoginseng),” Wenshan is advancing the entire Sanqi industrial chain, including planting, processing, trading, branding, and the listing of companies. The goal is to develop the Sanqi industry into a 100-Billion-Yuan industry. In 2023, the Sanqi planting area in Wenshan Prefecture reached 2.295 million mu, generating a comprehensive total output value of 17.895 billion yuan for Sanqi industry .

Wenshan Prefecture firmly upholds the development concept that “lucid waters and lush mountains and are invaluable assets.” With a deep-rooted foundation of green development, a beautiful landscape of ecological prosperity, thriving forestry, and prosperous livelihoods is gradually unfolding across the land of Yunnan.

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Crypto Forensics Company Launches “The Ultimate Guide to Recovering Stolen Cryptocurrency”

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Crypto Forensics Company, a leader in blockchain analysis and cryptocurrency investigations, is excited to announce the release of its comprehensive guide, “The Ultimate Guide to Recovering Stolen Cryptocurrency: Strategies and Tools Using Crypto Crime Investigations.” This essential resource is designed for victims of cryptocurrency theft, law enforcement agencies, and financial institutions looking to navigate the complex world of crypto forensics.

 

As the cryptocurrency market continues to grow, so does the prevalence of cybercrime targeting digital assets. According to recent reports, billions of dollars worth of cryptocurrency are stolen each year, leaving victims feeling hopeless and vulnerable. In response to this growing issue, Crypto Forensics Company has compiled a detailed guide that equips readers with the knowledge and tools necessary to recover stolen assets.

 

Key Features of the Guide:

 

1. In-Depth Analysis of Crypto Crime Trends: Understand the latest methods employed by cybercriminals to steal cryptocurrency, providing readers with insights into how to protect their assets.

 

2. Step-by-Step Recovery Strategies: Detailed, actionable strategies for victims to follow immediately after a theft occurs, increasing the chances of recovery.

3. Tools and Technologies: An overview of cutting-edge tools and technologies used in crypto forensics, including blockchain analysis software and tracking techniques.

 

4. Case Studies: Real-world examples of successful recoveries, showcasing the effectiveness of the strategies outlined in the guide.

 

5. Expert Insights: Contributions from leading experts in the field of crypto forensics, offering their perspectives on prevention and recovery.

 

 

“Our guide is a pioneering effort to provide individuals and organizations with the tools they need to combat cryptocurrency theft,” said Mr Mark, CEO of Crypto Forensics Company. “We understand the complexities of the blockchain and the emotional toll that losing digital assets can take. Our goal is to empower victims with knowledge and effective strategies for recovery.”

 

The guide is available for download on the Crypto Forensics Company website www.cryptocrimeinvestigation.com , along with additional resources and support for those affected by crypto crimes.

 

Victims of cryptocurrency theft often experience a range of profound emotional impacts, including:

 

1. Shock and Disbelief: Initially, victims may find it hard to accept that they have been targeted and that their assets have been stolen. This disbelief can lead to confusion and a sense of helplessness.

 

2. Anger and Frustration: Many victims feel intense anger towards the perpetrators, the cryptocurrency system, or themselves for falling victim to a scam. This frustration can manifest in various ways, including aggressive behavior or withdrawal from social interactions.

 

3. Anxiety and Fear: The fear of further financial loss or being targeted again can lead to chronic anxiety. Victims may worry about their financial future, potential identity theft, or the security of their remaining assets.

 

4. Depression: The loss of significant funds can lead to feelings of hopelessness and despair. Victims might experience a decline in self-esteem and a sense of failure, especially if they invested their savings or retirement funds.

 

5. Isolation: Victims may feel alone in their experience, especially if they believe others won’t understand or relate to their situation. This can lead to social withdrawal and a reluctance to discuss their experience with friends or family.

 

6. Distrust: Following a theft, victims often become wary of the cryptocurrency market and technology in general. This distrust can extend to financial institutions and online transactions, impacting their willingness to engage in future investments.

 

7. Guilt and Shame: Many victims grapple with feelings of guilt for not having taken better precautions or for trusting the wrong sources. This can lead to a cycle of self-blame that exacerbates their emotional distress.

 

8. Hope and Resilience: While the emotional impacts can be overwhelmingly negative, some victims may also experience a sense of hope and determination to recover their losses. This resilience can drive them to seek help, learn more about security measures, and take proactive steps to prevent future theft.

 

Overall, the emotional toll of cryptocurrency theft is significant, highlighting the need for support systems and resources for victims to cope with their experiences.

 

About Crypto Forensics Company:

 

Crypto Forensics Company is a pioneering organization dedicated to combating cryptocurrency crime through innovative forensic analysis and dedicated support. With a team of experts in blockchain technology and cyber investigations, the company is committed to helping victims recover their stolen assets and promoting a safer digital currency landscape.

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