Eunomia Research & Consulting and Mepex Consult AS were commissioned by the Nordic Working Group for Circular Economy to carry out a study on production and recycling of batteries used in electrical vehicles (EVs) with a focus on the Nordic region. The study sought to contribute to building knowledge around technologies and procedures capable of reducing emissions and minimising environmental risks across the EV battery value chain, and to provide initial findings that may inform future Best Available Techniques Reference documents.

The EV battery value chain is experiencing rapid growth and evolution at all stages. Each of these stages, and associated technologies, are accompanied by environmental risks, waste products and emissions. Additionally, distinct barriers to the circularity of batteries included degradation of battery capacity and complexity of technologies and supply chain.