Big Idea:

The rise of renewable energy demands a substantial increase in battery production, presenting environmental risks such as greenhouse gas pollution and ethical concerns in the supply chain, particularly in mining operations for raw materials like cobalt. The Global Battery Alliance (GBA) is promoting the use of battery passports—digital records that meticulously trace the origin of each battery component while assessing its environmental and social impact. This ensures the way for a sustainable and socially responsible battery industry.

Why It Matters:

The battery passport seeks to mitigate environmental and social risks, providing much-needed transparency and accountability in an industry critical for a sustainable future.

State of Play:

In January of last year, the GBA released the first proof of concept for the battery passport, focusing on evaluating greenhouse gas emissions, human rights, and child labor. The initiative plans to expand its scope to include additional factors like biodiversity and indigenous peoples' rights.

Key Details:

• Inga Petersen, Executive Director of the GBA, leads a collaborative effort involving NGOs, businesses, and government agencies to ensure environmental sustainability and social responsibility in the growing battery industry.
• By 2027, the European Union mandates every EV battery and numerous industrial batteries to feature a QR code, linking to detailed information on composition, origin, and carbon footprint.
• Batteries have become indispensable, propelling electric engines, fuelling electric vehicles, and storing renewable energy from solar panels and wind turbines.

"How can we scale this industry in a way that meets the targets of the green transition, but at the same time doesn’t cause collateral damage that would ultimately offset what we’re trying to achieve?" - Inga Petersen, Executive Director of the Global Battery Alliance.

What’s Next:

The success of the battery passport could influence other sectors grappling with supply chain transparency issues, such as the US Department of Labor's identification of products suspected of being produced with child or forced labor.

Yes, but:

Despite advancements, challenges persist, and the implementation of the battery passport will need to navigate complexities in supply chains and information accessibility.