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Lime’s scooter and e-bike batteries will be recycled by Redwood Materials

Lime has partnered with Redwood Materials to recycle batteries from its scooters and e-bikes, aiming to recover critical minerals while supporting sustainability goals. The exclusive agreement covers some operations in the U.S., Germany, and the Netherlands, marking Lime's first direct collaboration with a North American battery recycler to promote a circular supply chain for battery materials.

Key points

  • Lime's agreement with Redwood Materials allows for the recycling of critical minerals (lithium, cobalt, nickel, copper) from scooter and e-bike batteries.
  • Redwood Materials is a battery recycling startup founded by former Tesla CFO JB Straubel and will recycle batteries that are no longer usable.
  • The collaboration aims to reduce the demand for mining and refining by fostering a closed-loop manufacturing system.
  • Lime's sustainability goals include a target to decarbonize by 2030, having already reduced emissions by 59.5% over five years.
  • This is Lime's first direct relationship with a North American battery recycler, enhancing its recycling efforts beyond previous partnerships.
  • Redwood is already working with other micromobility firms to recycle their batteries, establishing itself as a leader in battery recycling.

Why it matters

  • The partnership aligns with the increasing trend towards circular economies and sustainable practices within the tech and transportation sectors.
  • The need for efficient battery recycling solutions is growing with the rise of electric vehicles and micromobility services worldwide.
  • This agreement reflects broader industry trends focusing on reducing carbon footprints and enhancing supply chain sustainability, anticipated to dominate IT and environmental policies by 2025.

Lime's partnership with Redwood Materials exemplifies a growing commitment to sustainability in the micromobility sector, emphasizing the importance of recycling and responsible resource management in the face of increasing battery reliance.