Electric vehicles (EVs) are vital for the global energy transition, yet a recent study from Princeton University indicates that refining essential minerals like nickel and cobalt for EV batteries may create pollution hotspots, particularly in China and India. The research suggests that domesticating supply chains for EV production could increase sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions by up to 20%. Given the existing high levels of air pollution in both countries, these potential emissions raise significant health concerns, as SO2 is a precursor to fine particulate matter linked to respiratory and cardiovascular issues.
China is transitioning into a mature EV supply chain, while India remains in the early stages, providing distinct opportunities and challenges for each. The study emphasizes the necessity for strict air pollution standards and the exploration of alternative battery chemistries, such as lithium iron phosphate, to mitigate SO2 emissions. Moreover, it highlights the importance of considering the entire supply chain, as pollution could merely shift locations rather than disappear. This research underscores the need for human-centered approaches in decarbonization efforts, ensuring that technological advancements benefit communities without introducing additional environmental burdens.
