Understanding Lithium-ion Battery Recycling: A Document Analysis of EU Battery Recycling Strategy

Sammanfattning

As lithium-ion batteries become central to the European Union’s (EU) clean energy transition, particularly in electric vehicles and energy storage systems, concerns have grown regarding the sustainability of their full lifecycle. Recycling is increasingly recognized as a key strategy to mitigate environmental impacts, reduce reliance on primary raw materials, and support the EU’s circular economy and climate neutrality goals. However, existing research on lithium-ion battery recycling is fragmented, differing significantly in focus, methodology, and target audience, which may hinder coherent policy development and the achievement of environmental objectives. This thesis examines the current state, underlying rationales and concerns, as well as key challenges and opportunities associated with lithium-ion battery recycling in the EU. A qualitative research approach was employed, involving comprehensive document analysis of 93 primary and 198 secondary sources, including EU policy documents, industry reports, academic literature, and stakeholder statements. Thematic analysis was guided by a conceptual framework that considers battery collection, material recovery, and secondary material markets, explored through political, economic, social, and technical (PEST) dimensions. Findings show that the EU’s battery recycling landscape is in a nascent but promising stage, with progress driven by policy support, economic incentives, technological innovation, and public awareness. Nonetheless, persistent challenges remain, such as high recycling costs, inconsistent collection practices, technical barriers in recovery, and immature markets for recycled materials. The development of battery recycling is underpinned by a broad consensus that it forms a cornerstone of a sustainable and resilient battery value chain. Opportunities and challenges are distributed along all stages of the recycling process; however, the opportunities currently outweigh the barriers. Yet, if unresolved, these barriers could impede further progress. This study contributes to the growing body of knowledge by offering a system-wide perspective on recycling dynamics to support circular economy objectives in the EU battery sector.