Enabling recycling of critical metals for electric vehicles

The transition to net-zero emissions is driving electric vehicle (EV) deployment, with global EV stock expected to surpass 350 million by 2030, rising critical mineral demand. The prevailing linear economy and inequitable geographic distribution of resources further intensify the demand for critical minerals, raising environmental concerns due to substantial end-of-life EV waste. This review examines the policy landscapes, regulatory mechanisms, and technological perspectives on recycling critical metals to enhance circularity in the EV industry. To enhance recycling efforts, regulatory frameworks and policies, particularly the Extended Producer Responsibility policy, have been increasingly introduced to promote critical metals circularity in EVs, though the scope of enforcement greatly varies across regions. Despite global ventures, EV battery recycling capacities remain limited, as the heterogeneity of battery designs and rapidly evolving cathode chemistry complicates the establishment of standardized infrastructures and technological procedures for critical metal recovery. Reinventing recycling technologies in accordance with evolving cathode chemistry is indispensable to meet future needs. In this case, artificial intelligence (AI)-driven standardized design and rapid screening of technologies could be preferably utilized for tackling sustainability challenges. Importantly, dynamic coordination among stakeholders across sectors, research innovations, and regulation compliance is essential for developing a sustainable critical mineral supply chain in the EV sector. This review informs and motivates relevant stakeholders to advance the circularity of critical metals in actualizing a resource-efficient society for sustainable development.