BATTERY RECYCLING INDUSTRY COULD ADD BILLIONS TO AUSTRALIA’S ECONOMY
A new industry report suggests that expanding battery recycling across Australia could deliver significant economic benefits while supporting the country’s transition to cleaner energy technologies. Experts estimate that a national battery recycling industry could contribute around $6.9 billion to the Australian economy and create more than 34,000 jobs by 2050.
Researchers say the rapid growth of electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and portable electronics is increasing the number of used batteries that require safe disposal and recycling. Without adequate recycling systems, many of these batteries could end up in landfills, posing environmental risks due to hazardous materials.
Developing stronger recycling infrastructure would enable the recovery and reuse of valuable materials such as lithium, nickel, cobalt, and copper in new batteries. Industry experts say this would help strengthen Australia’s circular economy while reducing reliance on imported raw materials used in battery production.
Environmental specialists and industry leaders are calling for increased investment and policy support to expand battery recycling capacity nationwide. They say building a robust recycling industry will play an important role in supporting Australia’s growing electric vehicle market and renewable energy storage systems.
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