The transition to a low carbon future will require vastly expanded use of large batteries for electric vehicles of all sizes, as well as household, commercial and industrial energy storage. Global battery demand is expected to grow by 25% annually through 2030. This transformation will require unprecedented levels of investment, collaboration and innovation across both private and public sectors to support the development of safe and responsible battery value chains.

The session aimed to raise the profile and build shared understanding of the key opportunities and challenges associated with developing and implementing a circular economy for EV batteries in North America.

Beyond its contribution to a deeper and wider awareness of the issues, the session focused on specific actions that can and should be undertaken throughout the value chain and across different actors. It sought to identify next steps that can be taken to accelerate the transition to a fully circular vision for EV in North America.