Among the three types of solid-state batteries, the ecological footprint of the negative electrode is higher than that of the positive electrode. In addition, among the five types of batteries, the contribution of carbon dioxide index to ecological footprint is higher than that of nuclear energy and land occupation. 4.3.2.
Lithium ion batteries, which are typically used in EVs, are difficult to recycle and require huge amounts of energy and water to extract. Companies are frantically looking for more sustainable alternatives that can help power the world's transition to green energy.
In the ecological footprint, NMC batteries are more environmentally friendly for carbon dioxide and nuclear energy use, while LFP batteries are more environmentally friendly for land occupation. In the health footprint, there are significant differences in the footprint values of various types of batteries under various indicators.
The use of this resource raises concerns about the limited supply of transition metals along with the associated environmental footprint. Organic rechargeable batteries, which are transition-metal-free, eco-friendly and cost-effective, are promising alternatives to current lithium-ion batteries that could alleviate these mounting concerns.
More abundant materials like sodium and sand are being looked at which can be sourced locally and less destructively. Other technologies such as metal-air batteries, solid-state batteries and the use of silicon are all vying to try and increase capacity, and also safety, while reducing production costs.
Global efforts to lessen our carbon footprint have prompted a transition to renewable energy and the increased adoption of electric mobility. Because rechargeable batteries are a key enabler in these endeavours, a substantial rise in battery production is foreseeable in the coming years.