Europe’s battery recycling efforts lag, but stronger EU-Africa partnerships could change the game.

Europe is struggling to meet its recycling targets for critical raw materials, with a recent report revealing alarmingly low recycling rates for key minerals. The European Commission aims to source 25% of strategic materials from recycling by 2030, yet many minerals, including lithium and graphite, are barely recovered.

To enhance recycling, Europe must shift its regulatory approach, treating battery materials as valuable resources rather than hazardous waste. Strengthening partnerships with African nations could provide a sustainable solution, leveraging Europe’s growing electric vehicle market to boost domestic recycling capabilities.