The Other Side of Clean Energy

The transition to cleaner energy sources is an urgent and non-negotiable necessity. Replacing combustion-engine vehicles with electric ones and the growing use of solar and wind energy are important milestones on this path. However, this progress must be accompanied by environmental responsibility throughout the entire production chain. One issue that still receives little attention is the fate of lithium-ion batteries, which sustain much of the “zero emissions” promise. The problem is that, at the end of their useful life, these batteries can pose a significant environmental threat if not properly disposed of.

Recent studies reveal that these batteries contain toxic heavy metals and are highly reactive, with real risks of explosion when improperly discarded. Less than 5% are correctly recycled worldwide, and lithium extraction itself is already an extremely aggressive activity toward the environment. In Brazil, the situation is even more critical: there is a lack of adequate infrastructure, effective public policies, and collective awareness about the issue. With a significant increase in battery waste projected between 2027 and 2030, it is urgent to discuss concrete solutions to avoid a silent environmental disaster.

We must act on multiple fronts: extending battery life through proper maintenance, investing in more sustainable technological alternatives such as sodium-ion batteries, and supporting reverse logistics policies. While the country is still developing its own recycling infrastructure, forming partnerships with international recyclers is also a strategic move. But perhaps the most important step is educating consumers and businesses about the importance of responsible disposal. Without this awareness, the advances in clean energy could become an environmental trap in the future.

As a business leader in the sector, my view is clear: the energy transition is inevitable, but it must come with accountability. Embracing sustainability in speech is not enough; we must also face the challenges it brings. In our company, we are already exploring alternatives such as long-lasting batteries and researching the use of green hydrogen as a complementary energy source. Sustainability is not just about the present. It’s about ensuring that the future receives the legacy we promise to build today