While everyone debates EV adoption rates, a massive opportunity is building in plain sight: an avalanche of lithium battery recycling feedstock hitting recycling markets.
The numbers tell the story. 1.35 million tons of lithium-ion battery scrap projected for 2025. By 2035? 4.5 million tons. Most of it coming from production scrap as gigafactories scale at breakneck speed, then shifting to end-of-life batteries as the first wave of EVs reaches retirement.
Here's what makes this interesting: LFP batteries are 64% of battery manufacturing this year. These workhorses are taking over energy storage and EV systems because they're cheap, safe, and reliable. By 2035, LFP will contribute roughly 2 million tons of recycling feedstock volume.
The catch? LFP batteries lack the high-value metals like cobalt and nickel that make traditional recycling profitable. No precious metals, lower margins. This forces the industry to innovate or get left behind.
Smart recyclers are already adapting. Direct recycling methods. Process optimization. Volume-based economics instead of value-per-unit plays. The companies that crack this code won't just survive the LFP wave—they'll ride it to dominance.
The feedstock is abundant. The technology is evolving. The question isn't whether this market will explode, it's who will be ready when it does.
We look forward to making progress on this effort and keeping you updated along the way.
