Biplab Das 
Swiss mining group Glencore has opted to establish a pilot project for an electric vehicle (EV) battery recycling plant outside Italy. The decision comes in response to challenges faced in Sardinia, where the group originally intended to develop a larger facility.
Shifting the testing grounds
Glencore, in collaboration with Canada’s Li-Cycle, had initially planned to create a recycling hub in Portovesme, Sardinia. This hub aimed to produce lithium and other materials from shredded material obtained from used car batteries, commonly referred to as “black mass.” However, the relocation of the testing and demonstration plant away from Portovesme became necessary for expediting the project’s commissioning.
Environmental impact assessment hurdle
The decision to relocate the testing phase stemmed from the regional government of Sardinia’s refusal to expedite the environmental impact assessment for the project. This setback prompted Glencore to seek an alternative location for the pilot plant to ensure swift progress.
Future prospects
Despite the relocation of the testing phase, Glencore emphasized that this development does not immediately impact the feasibility assessment of the larger hub project. The group highlighted that the definite feasibility study is ongoing and continues to focus on Portovesme, aligning with Italy’s objectives for sustainable industry development.
While the pilot plant’s specific location remains unspecified by Glencore, reports suggest that several countries in Europe and North America are being considered as alternative options.
Union criticism and environmental assessment challenges
Italian labour unions, including CGIL, CISL, and UIL, criticized the lack of firm deadlines in the ongoing environmental assessment procedure. The unions accused the Sardinian region and the Italian government of displaying an “attitude of distrust” towards the project, creating an “unacceptable situation” that hinders energy transition plans.
In a recent development reported by Reuters, documents submitted by Glencore for the environmental impact assessment procedure were deemed insufficient by Sardinia’s regional administration. This further complicates the regulatory process for the project in the region.
Glencore’s decision to establish a pilot project for EV battery recycling outside Italy reflects the challenges faced in Sardinia, emphasizing the complexities involved in aligning industrial projects with environmental regulations and regional objectives.
