Over the next 15 years, Europe may face a critical metal shortage if it does not succeed in securing new access to mines and increased capacity for refining metals, such as smelters.according to a report from the Belgian university KU Leuven, prepared on behalf of Eurometaux, a European industry association for metal producers.
But recycling is also a very important piece. If the recycling capacity is built up, 40–75 per cent of Europe’s needs for metals for green energy solutions can be covered through recycling by 2050.
Among other things, 35 times more lithium and 3.5 times more cobalt are needed than today to achieve the EU’s climate goals by 2050, according to the report.
Aluminum, copper, silicon and nickel are all materials that require an increased annual supply compared to today. The materials are necessary for electric cars and batteries, solar and wind power, hydrogen and a modern power grid.
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