Recovering the critical raw materials in batteries
Summary of contents
This policy position was developed in conjunction with experts in our community. It covers our asks to enable the recovery of critical raw materials from batteries in the UK. It highlights the strategic importance of CRMs—such as lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements—for clean energy technologies and the growing pressure on their supply due to the global shift towards electrification and decarbonisation. It underscores the environmental and economic benefits of recovering CRMs, including reduced reliance on primary extraction, lower energy use, and decreased waste.
To address these challenges, this policy position calls for the UK government to invest in domestic battery recycling infrastructure, promote battery designs that facilitate disassembly and material recovery, and update legislation to support a circular economy. It stresses the need for better tracking of CRM flows, harmonisation with EU regulations, and stronger collaboration between academia and industry. Without timely action, the UK risks losing valuable materials to landfill and falling short of international trade and environmental commitments.