2023 Forum on Responsible Mineral Supply Chains

Sustainable batteries and the challenge of Just Transition: opportunities and implementation challenges of the EU Battery Regulation

Apr 27, 2023 | 8:30 AM - 10:00 AM

Partner session - Room CC20

Description

Organised by: Drive Sustainability and the Responsible Minerals Initiative (RMI) To replace fossil fuels and achieve the green transition, the automotive sector will require significant amounts of critical raw materials. However, the sourcing and processing of these commodities are often associated with environmental and human rights risks, high energy intensity, and a general lack of transparency. The EU Battery Regulation aims at solving this trade-off, by imposing measures that would improve the sustainability and transparency of EV battery production. Whereas the legislative act is a real opportunity for EU batteries to be the most sustainable in the world, the industries concerned face several implementation challenges and considerations, such as understanding the definition of transparency and how to apply risk-based and progressive approaches in line with OECD Guidance while meeting the law. The session will also discuss the use of credible industry schemes as an opportunity to meet these challenges, including how companies can responsibly leverage schemes and individual company action needed.