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Whenever discussing EVs’ disposition as “eco-friendly”, people bring up the fact that it relies on rare-earth materials such as lithium. Clearly, lithium isn’t the problem, but its extraction process pollutes the environment, nullifying other advantages. It is a valid claim, automotive industry should ensure that the shift to EVs doesn’t do our planet more harm than good. With that, BMW recently announced its sponsoring researches to help find sustainable extraction methods.
This is yet another step that should be celebrated. Germans announced before that they’re laying off the use of rare earth metals. And as a resolution, will make sure to source cobalt from reputable companies for their electric drivetrains. Their recent partnership with two renowned American universities will now focus on lithium as well.
The University of Alaska-Anchorage and University of Massachusetts-Amherst’s research will focus on the impact of lithium extraction. This impact focuses on Latin America’s hydrologic environment. It’s where two-thirds of the world’s lithium reserves are located and so far.
Patrick Hudde, head of Indirect Purchasing Raw Materials Management, BMW Group said, “Electromobility can only be truly sustainable when even raw materials are extracted in the most sustainable manner. We have commissioned a new study, designed to create a scientific basis for determining the best sourcing for lithium. We’re glad to be in partnership with two of the most distinguished universities in this study. We are certain this will generate a piece of new significant knowledge about lithium extraction.”
Lightest metal on earth, we often see lithium used in producing batteries, ceramics, glass and aluminum, among other items. Because of that, lithium remains an essential raw material in manufacturing lithium-ion batteries. That is its key role in electrifying vehicles. We expect to see the final results from the study in the first half of 2022. It will also include a five-tier rating system. A rating designed to provide companies with better guidance on sustainable lithium extraction in Latin America.
