Access to sustainable raw materials for batteries raw materials is paramount for a resilient European battery value chain. Advanced (Li-ion) battery technology is currently the main choice for electro-mobility and expected to dominate the market in the coming years. Various raw materials are required in lithium-ion batteries including lithium, cobalt, nickel, manganese, graphite, silicon, copper and aluminum. The supply of some of these materials, in particular cobalt, natural graphite and lithium, is of concern today and for the future in view of the large quantities needed and/or very concentrated supply sources. The sustainability of the extraction and exploitation of these resources is fundamental, and recycling of materials will increasingly become important for diversifying the EU's supply and should continue to be encouraged in the context of the transition to a circular economy. EIT InnoEnergy has been engaged in various activities addressing the topic of the strategic importance of raw materials mining in Europe. In this document, there will be specific focus on the general activities analyzed on a high level to show the progress throughout the year 2020.
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