KOREA, 16 October 2023: SK Ecoplant’s Singaporean unit, TES-AMM, proudly announces a significant milestone in battery recycling. They have successfully processed and recycled over 6,000 metric tons of discarded batteries, demonstrating their dedication to environmental sustainability.
Battery Recycling Excellence
TES-AMM, an electronic waste recycling company, has been at the forefront of processing and recycling lithium batteries extracted from various electronic devices, including smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Considering that the batteries from these devices typically weigh about 50 grams each, the cumulative processed amount is equivalent to an astounding 120 million units of devices.
Rare Metal Extraction
One of TES-AMM’s remarkable achievements is the effective extraction of rare metals, such as lithium and cobalt, from waste batteries at an impressive rate of 92 percent, with an exceptional level of purity reaching 99 percent. This accomplishment showcases their commitment to resource conservation and environmental responsibility.
International Recognition
TES-AMM’s dedication to battery recycling has not gone unnoticed. They have received international recognition through various awards, including the UK’s Reuters Responsible Business Awards in 2020, the US’ Edison Awards in 2022, and Sustainability, Environmental Achievement, and Leadership Awards in 2023. These accolades reflect their technological prowess and commitment to sustainability.
Global Expansion and EV Battery Recycling
TES-AMM has expanded its operations to a total of 23 countries, with recycling facilities in key locations such as Singapore, Shanghai, and Grenoble, France. This international presence has been strengthened by securing about 30 Basel Permits, which are essential for legally transporting discarded batteries to overseas facilities. This achievement has bolstered their logistics and distribution capabilities across 23 locales.
The Vision for a Circular Economy
SK Ecoplant’s CEO, Park Kyung-il, envisions a closed-loop circular economy. The ultimate goal is to recycle rare metals extracted from waste batteries and use them to manufacture new batteries. This approach aligns with the principles of sustainability and responsible resource management.
Expanding Horizons
In addition to their current successes, TES-AMM is advancing into the electric vehicle (EV) battery recycling market. An SK Ecoplant official stated, “We plan to secure an edge in the global EV battery recycling market that is estimated to reach a scale of 600 trillion won (USD 442bn) by 2050.” This strategic move positions them to play a vital role in shaping the future of sustainable transportation.
Global Reach and Sustainability
TES-AMM’s commitment to environmental sustainability extends to the establishment of EV waste battery processing plants in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, and Yancheng in northeastern China. These initiatives signify their dedication to expanding their reach and further contributing to a greener future.
Conclusion
SK Ecoplant’s TES-AMM is setting a benchmark in battery recycling, with international recognition and a forward-looking approach. Their achievements and commitment to sustainability exemplify their mission to create a cleaner and more responsible future.