Mapping battery production in Europe : locations, production volumes, trends, recyclability and its environmental impact

Abstract

This thesis focuses on the challenges of meeting “The European Green Deal” by producing, using, reusing and recycling of adequate number of “batteries”. The target is to change the union into a society which effectively uses its resources to achieve a strong economy where net greenhouse gas emissions are zero by 2050. The aim of this thesis is to form an overview of the current situation and progress towards this goal in the case of sustainable manufacturing and supply chain of batteries from the perspective of industrial engineering. The work includes a literature review that discusses current scenarios of critical material sourcing, mining in Europe and recycling processes of batteries.

The findings of the thesis include key production hubs of Europe with their current status, the balance between virgin and recycled materials in the manufacturing process, the practice of closed loop production system, trends in recycling and current supply chain risk with technological impacts. The research is supported by a literature review and data on the above aspects collected from the local government, market research and company websites.

The study can provide readers with a good understanding and a set of data for further studies on battery life cycle, innovation, and environmental impact. Furthermore, it will help in decision-making for regulatory and sustainable strategies and assist manufacturers in optimizing material sourcing and production processes.