The Waste Trade of Electric Vehicle Battery Scrap

This research highlights the emerging global trade in waste generated by electric vehicle (EV) batteries, focusing on its economic, environmental, and regulatory implications. With the rapid expansion of the EV market, the volume of end-of-life and defective battery materials is increasing significantly. While these materials contain valuable metals such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, their trade and recycling are complex and often poorly regulated.

The report examines how scrap batteries are frequently exported from industrialised nations to countries with weaker environmental and labour protections. Such practices raise serious concerns about pollution, unsafe recycling processes, and the potential exploitation of workers. It also notes the lack of harmonised international rules, which allows gaps in governance and oversight.

At the same time, the study underscores the opportunities that responsible recycling and material recovery offer for reducing resource dependency and supporting the circular economy. Stronger regulation, international cooperation, and investment in safe recycling infrastructure are identified as essential for managing EV battery waste sustainably.