A recent report from the Union of Concerned Scientists argues that simply banning the export of used electric‑vehicle batteries will not spur the domestic recycling industry to the level needed to meet growing demand. The study shows that without complementary policies—such as incentives for local recycling facilities, stricter waste‑management regulations, and investments in new technologies—countries will still rely on overseas processing and risk falling behind in a rapidly expanding market. It highlights how the current export ban creates a false sense of progress, while the lack of a robust domestic framework leaves critical supply chains vulnerable and environmental goals out of reach.
An Export Ban Isn’t Enough to Increase Domestic EV Battery Recycling The Equation - Union of Concerned Scientists