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GM's announcement proves that the shift from petrol to batteries is happening faster than anyone expected.
This is huge.
As the world battles the climate crisis we need to cut emissions
(thread) https://www.ft.com/content/ea49d8cc-0e40-4dcd-ab60-0decc7146f5a
This is huge.
As the world battles the climate crisis we need to cut emissions
(thread) https://www.ft.com/content/ea49d8cc-0e40-4dcd-ab60-0decc7146f5a
But the shift to batteries carries risks - as increased extraction of the metals used in them risks harming communities and the environment.
We've all seen what the oil boom has led to. We don't want to see the same tragedies repeated
the work of @amnesty & @afrewatch and others shows the harms already being done by cobalt and lithium mining for example
.the @BHRRC transition minerals tracker is a comprehensive resource
https://trackers.business-humanrights.org/transition-minerals/
https://trackers.business-humanrights.org/transition-minerals/
see also @SOMO's recent report https://www.somo.nl/the-battery-paradox/
and the excellent study by @UTSEngage and @Earthworks https://www.earthworks.org/publications/responsible-minerals-sourcing-for-renewable-energy/
Its not just mining. There are additional risks along the battery value chain - what will be the impact of new refiners and factories? what will happen to old batteries and can the rate of recycling be improved?
All of this is why @amnesty and partners across the human rights and environmental movements will be releasing, next week, a set of "Principles" for businesses - like GM - and governments to follow.
The shift to batteries is hugely welcome, but not at any cost.
Please DM for details
Please DM for details
