In the context of the rapid development of the global new energy vehicle industry, how to promote green transformation has become one of the key topics for battery companies. As the world's leading supplier of power batteries, CATL has always been at the forefront of the industry. At the 2024 World New Energy Vehicle Conference, Zeng Yuqun, chairman of CATL, announced the company's latest progress in battery recycling and zero-carbon strategy, which not only demonstrates its leading position in the field of green technology, but also marks the company's determination and practical actions to move towards a new era of "zero-carbon factory".
Pictured: Dr. Zeng Yuqun, Chairman of CATL, speaks at the 2024 World New Energy Vehicle Conference
CATL's "zero-carbon new infrastructure" plan
CATL's "zero-carbon new infrastructure" solution has set a new benchmark for the industry. This program is not only a demonstration of environmental commitment, but also a strong promotion for the sustainable development of the global battery industry. By building a battery life cycle management system, CATL integrates sustainable development into every link from supply chain, design, production to recycling.
The significance of this system lies not only in its environmental contribution, but also in reducing overall costs by optimizing the use of resources. As Zeng Yuqun said, "Promoting green development is not only a social responsibility, but also a way for enterprises to develop in the long run." This concept coincides with the global climate goals highlighted in the Paris Agreement, and also shows CATL's desire to contribute to global sustainable development through its own efforts.
Battery recycling and recycling: the key to reducing resource waste
CATL's achievements in battery recycling are equally impressive. The company has achieved up to 15,000 battery cycles and a service life of more than 20 years for energy storage systems. This achievement not only extends the life cycle of the product, but also significantly reduces the dependence on raw materials, which in turn reduces the damage to the natural environment.
CATL's battery recycling rate is also among the highest in the world. In 2023, the company recycled 100,000 tons of used batteries, with a recovery rate of 91% for lithium and 99.6% for nickel, cobalt and manganese. This makes CATL one of the largest companies in the world in terms of lithium battery recycling. In this field, CATL has not only led technological innovation, but also achieved a win-win situation of economic and environmental benefits through large-scale production.
Construction of zero-carbon factories: from vision to reality
CATL's zero-carbon strategy is not just on paper, but into action. Zeng Yuqun announced at the meeting that CATL has obtained "zero carbon" certification for nine battery factories and plans to achieve "zero carbon" goals for all factories by 2025. This means that the company will completely eliminate carbon emissions from the production process, which is not only a milestone for the battery industry, but also an important progress in the global manufacturing industry on the road to carbon neutrality.
The construction of a zero-carbon factory is supported by a large number of technological innovations. For example, CATL has vigorously promoted the application of renewable energy, and through the deployment of green energy sources such as photovoltaic power generation and wind power generation, it has ensured that the electricity demand for factory operation comes from sustainable energy sources. In addition, the company is committed to optimizing production processes, reducing energy waste, and further improving overall environmental benefits.
Carbon neutrality ambition: Leading the industry towards a green future
CATL's carbon neutrality goal goes far beyond the construction of zero-carbon factories. The company plans to achieve carbon neutrality across the entire battery value chain by 2035. To achieve this goal, CATL not only needs to continue to optimize its own production processes, but also promote the green transformation of the entire supply chain. This includes working with upstream suppliers to promote the use of green raw materials, as well as working with downstream customers to develop more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly products.
The benefits of achieving this goal are multifold. First, it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fight global climate change. Second, this move will enhance CATL's market competitiveness, as more and more consumers and companies begin to pay attention to the environmental performance of their products. As Zeng Yuqun said, "Green development is not only the responsibility of enterprises, but also the competitiveness of the future.”
Battery Passport: Enhancing Product Transparency and Consumer Trust
In order to promote global cooperation, CATL also actively participates in the "Battery Passport" program of the Global Battery Alliance GBA. The battery passport is an "identity card" that records information about the carbon footprint of the battery throughout its life cycle, providing consumers and regulators with transparent product information. In this way, CATL not only enhances the credibility of its own products, but also sets a new standard for the industry.
The launch of the "Battery Passport" will help drive the recycling and reuse of batteries worldwide, as it provides clear environmental data for all parties. This initiative not only demonstrates CATL's leadership in the global battery industry, but also further strengthens its innovation capabilities in the field of green technologies.
A pioneer in leading the green revolution in the industry
CATL's practical actions have not only promoted the company's own sustainable development, but also contributed to the green transformation of the entire new energy vehicle industry chain. CATL is leading a green revolution by extending battery life, increasing recycling rates, building zero-carbon factories, achieving carbon neutrality, and launching a battery passport.
The significance of this green revolution is not limited to technological innovation, but also provides a valuable reference for other companies around the world. In the face of the challenge of global climate change, companies should not stop at the level of commitment, but should take practical actions to promote sustainable development, as CATL did. This philosophy echoes the words of renowned environmental advocate Al ·Gore: "Sometimes the future depends on the choices we make today."
With the growing global demand for low-carbon and environmentally friendly products, CATL's efforts will undoubtedly enhance its competitiveness in the international market. We can foresee that with the further development of green technology, CATL will continue to maintain its leading position in the global market and promote the entire battery industry to move towards a greener and more sustainable direction.
