How to Achieve Green Manufacturing in the Battery Production Process?
The sustainable battery production process has been gaining substantial attention recently. Because of the growing demand for EVs (electric vehicles) and renewable energy storage, more and more businesses are joining the competition of battery manufacturing to grasp the large opportunities. However, the expanding use of eco-friendly batteries is driven by their potential to reduce emissions and support clean energy. The whole process may involve significant environmental challenges. It may render resource extraction, high energy consumption, and waste production. This article outlines the current environment issue on battery manufacturing and the methods to achieve green manufacturing in battery production process. (Copyright Photo from: https://img.freepik.com/free-photo/wasteless-concept-with-blossoming-bouquet_23-2149696445.jpg?t=st=1717147622~exp=1717151222~hmac=9492c68bdbe83e5ae26eae7802cb51bffd162053a2aeac46b612f2c987e2c806&w=996) Current Manufacturing Status for Environmental Impact The demand for batteries is soaring to power everything from smartphones to electric vehicles. However, it would bring some environmental impact for various aspects: 1. Warm-House Gas Emission When Mining While sustainable batteries are highly significant in combating global warming, mining components used in battery production processes come with environmental concerns. Mining and mineral processing needed in the lithium battery production process contributes to 40% of the climate impact in the overall process[1]. And when digging the metal elements, machines would generate the warm house gases, which exaggerate the global warming. 2. Toxic Materials Utilization Data Center Knowledge[2] shows that some types of lithium-ion batteries integrate toxic materials that can contaminate the water supplies or ecosystem around the mine. In the battery manufacturing process, certain toxic materials, such as nickel, cobalt, and manganese, are often utilized due to their superior electrochemical properties. These materials enhance battery performance and provide reliable efficiency. But the use of these toxic substances carries significant environmental drawbacks. For example, lead and cadmium are highly toxic to humans and wildlife, posing serious health risks if they contaminate soil and water. The disposal of batteries containing these