Lithium

Element: Lithium (Li)

Where’s it mined: The majority of the world’s lithium is currently mined in Australia and South America.

Where is it mainly manufactured? 97% of lithium resources are refined and used in manufacturing in China.

What’s it mainly used for: rechargeable batteries in electronics and computer hardware, or electric vehicles.

How much would you find in a laptop: a laptop battery contains approximately 6 – 8 grams of lithium.

How does the use of lithium affect the environment?

1) Lithium mining affects local ecosystems and communities; and millions of gallons of water are used in its extraction.

2) Because 97% of lithium is imported for use in manufacturing in China, and then exported in electronics around the world - global supply chains incur a huge carbon footprint.

3) Lithium batteries are currently being stockpiled until battery recycling becomes less expensive, and safer.

How can we limit the impact on the environment?

We should aim to use, re-use, and refurbish electronics to extend their lifespan for as long as possible. Buying refurbished electronics, or devices made from recycled materials, is also preferable to buying new devices made from raw (mined) materials. When it does come to end of life, we need to recycle our electronics to ensure those materials are re-used in manufacturing.

This can help reduce the need to mine for raw materials, and thus reduce the impact on biodiversity and local populations.

Depending on procurement choices, users might be able to reduce the device’s carbon footprint associated with import and export; and avoid using supply chains with links to modern slavery or unsafe working conditions.

When will we run out: 2100 (or once we’ve made 3 billion electric cars).

How is it recycled: Well it’s not great news! Currently, only 5% of lithium-ion batteries from electric vehicles are being recycled. These batteries undergo a high-temperature melting-and-extraction process similar to ones used in the mining industry. These operations are energy intensive and not all battery materials are recovered.

But the good news is, it is easier to recycle lithium ion batteries from electronics.

Where can you recycle it in Guernsey: home users can take loose lithium-ion batteries, or lithium ion batteries contained in electrical waste/computer hardware to the States of Guernsey Longue Hougue Site. Commercial companies should contact Galaxy CI, or Island Waste.

Owners of electric vehicles should contact their dealer.