Maximizing Mobility and Minimizing Mining: An Expert's Plan for Electric Vehicles
Batteries used in electric vehicles are made of mined materials with potential adverse environmental impacts.
The lithium mining industry is particularly concerning due to issues like water usage and contamination, biodiversity loss, and social impacts on Indigenous peoples and their territories.
The demand for lithium in the US electric vehicle market alone could triple global production by 2050.
This could result in an increase in individual lithium mines with negative environmental and social effects.
Alternative modes of transportation like buses, light rail, cycling, and walking should be explored to address these impacts.
Recycling efforts should be prioritized to reduce environmental impact.
Boosting battery recycling has the potential to reduce lithium demand by 92%.
It is crucial to consider a comprehensive approach to designing the transportation sector that balances mobility with elimination of harmful mining practices.
The report “Achieving zero emissions with more mobility and less mining” was authored by political science professor Thea Riofrancos of Providence College.
Riofrancos believes in considering both mobility and environmental protection in the design of the transportation sector.
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