University of Melbourne study warns lithium-ion battery emissions will rise sharply by 2050
A University of Melbourne-led study published in One Earth finds that demand for rechargeable batteries could increase tenfold in supply-chain emissions by 2050.
Supply chain emissions face steep growth
Modeling indicates that global greenhouse gas output from lithium-ion battery production will grow ten times faster than current levels. This surge is driven by a projected twenty-fold increase in demand for electric vehicle and energy storage batteries over the next few decades. Researchers state that focusing solely on cleaner manufacturing processes cannot stop this rise.
Demand side strategies offer relief
Professor Wen Li suggests that reducing battery sizes and extending their useful lives could cut predicted carbon dioxide emissions by half. Promoting shared mobility also appears as a viable method to lower the total environmental footprint of these power sources. The team notes that combining supply and demand actions is necessary to meet climate goals.
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