Responsible Battery Minerals

From reducing carbon emissions in metal production to ensuring ethical sourcing of critical minerals, the midstream and upstream players are laying a strong foundation for greener electric vehicle (EV) batteries.

Investing in Low-Carbon, Ethical Mineral Supply

Leading miners like BHP are prioritizing cleaner production methods and partnerships for responsible sourcing. In Western Australia, BHP’s Nickel West operation supplies high-grade nickel for batteries with an increasingly low-carbon footprint, backed by investments in renewable energy. BHP has even set a target to halve Nickel West’s greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. At the same time, the company is securing long-term deals to provide sustainably produced nickel to automakers such as Tesla and Toyota, helping ensure EV manufacturers have ethically sourced materials. These strategic agreements not only bolster supply stability but also reinforce high environmental and social standards from the mine onward.

Another crucial battery mineral is lithium, and producers are likewise focusing on sustainability. Albemarle – one of the world’s largest lithium suppliers – has taken a leadership role in shaping industry best practices for carbon footprint tracking. In 2024 Albemarle supported the International Lithium Association in releasing the first standardized guidance for measuring the product carbon footprint of lithium chemicals. This effort helps lithium producers report greenhouse gas emissions in a consistent way, answering growing regulatory and customer demands for transparency. Such initiatives make it easier to compare the environmental impact of lithium from different sources and encourage improvements in extraction and processing methods.

Transparency and Collaboration from the Source

Upstream companies are increasingly collaborating across the value chain to promote responsible mining and traceable materials. Many adhere to international frameworks like OECD due diligence guidelines to prevent human rights abuses in mineral supply. They are also preparing to meet new battery regulations that require proof of ethical sourcing and lower carbon emissions. For instance, Europe’s new Battery Regulation will demand disclosure of a battery’s carbon footprint and material provenance via a digital “battery passport.” This means mining companies will need to provide verifiable data on the origins and sustainability of their metals. Forward-looking firms like BHP and Albemarle are already well positioned – by investing in clean energy, community initiatives, and rigorous auditing of their mines, they are ensuring the raw ingredients of the battery economy are as green and responsible as possible.

Upstream pioneers understand that sustainability is not just a downstream concern; it begins at the very start of the supply chain. Their commitment to responsible mining, lower-carbon refining, and transparent practices is helping drive the entire battery industry toward a more ethical and earth-friendly future. By “greening” the source of battery materials, these companies are enabling truly sustainable batteries that can power the clean-energy transition with integrity.

Sources Consulted:
CarbonCredits.com (2024), Albemarle News (2024/11/20)