Closing the loop: Lithium Battery Recycling Solutions leads the way in lithium battery recycling
As the world accelerates toward electrification, lithium batteries have become essential to modern life, from e-scooters and mobility scooters to electric cars and industrial energy storage. But with rapid adoption comes an equally urgent challenge: how do we safely and sustainably manage lithium batteries at end of life?
We have spent years building the expertise, infrastructure, and partnerships needed to meet this challenge head-on. At Lithium Battery Recycling Solutions (LBRS), we are proud to operate one of the UK’s first dedicated lithium battery treatment facilities, supporting a safer, smarter, and more circular battery economy.
The education challenge: Lithium batteries are hazardous waste
A consistent theme in our discussions with businesses is simple: awareness is still far too low. Many organisations and individuals do not yet realise that lithium batteries are classified as hazardous waste and must be handled only by qualified, accredited professionals.
The risks of improper disposal are significant:
Fire hazards caused by thermal runaway
Toxic contamination of soil and water
Increased danger when damaged batteries are stored incorrectly
Unlike general waste, lithium battery treatment is a paid-for specialist service, reflecting the advanced expertise, equipment, and safety protocols required to manage them responsibly.
At LBRS, our primary focus is on larger format batteries, from e-scooters, mobility scooters, and electric vehicles up, while smaller items such as e-bike packs or vape batteries are managed through our trusted partner network. Education remains a key priority, and we are committed to helping businesses understand their legal obligations and best practices for safe handling.
Meeting the recycling challenge head-on
Most hydrometallurgical and pyrometallurgical refinement where materials like lithium, cobalt, and nickel are recovered takes place in continental Europe and the UK currently relies on exporting materials after specialist pre-treatment because full-scale metallurgical capability is not yet established domestically. LBRS are at the forefront of bridging this gap.
Through our cutting-edge method, over 80% of the battery’s materials can be recovered and re-entered into the supply chain - supporting true circularity.
As Alan Colledge, Technical Director at LBRS, explains:
“The focus has always been on developing a full circular process. By working with European facilities while developing capability here in the UK, we’re helping ensure lithium batteries are managed safely and sustainably, protecting both people and the planet.”
Expanding capacity and strengthening partnerships
Demand for lithium battery recycling is expanding at pace. With over 340,000 tonnes of lithium batteries currently in UK vehicles that will one day enter the waste stream, the need for safe, accredited recycling is set to grow significantly.
To stay ahead of future volumes, LBRS is investing in a larger, next-generation facility scheduled to open in early 2026. This will:
Significantly increase our UK processing capacity
Enhance safety and efficiency for large-format EV batteries
Support a broader network of manufacturers, recyclers, and sustainability partners
Prepare for the surge of end-of-life EV batteries expected later this decade
In parallel, evolving legislation such as the new Battery Regulation requiring recycled content in new batteries will accelerate the move toward full circularity. Battery recyclers will soon provide essential raw materials to UK gigafactories, reducing reliance on mining and supporting a resilient domestic supply chain
Looking ahead: A growing, maturing industry
Lithium battery recycling is entering a period of transformation. What was once an emerging market is rapidly maturing, driven by electrification, sustainability commitments, and regulatory change. In the years ahead, we expect:
Increased battery manufacturing in the UK, creating greater demand for locally sourced recycled materials
Higher recovery rate requirements, placing hydrometallurgical processes at the centre of future policy
A national shift from exporting materials to developing full domestic refining capacity
A surge in EV battery volumes, particularly from end-of-life vehicles, which will require specialist handling and recycling infrastructure
At LBRS, we’re proud to be shaping this future. Our commitment is clear: to deliver safe, innovative, and truly circular lithium battery recycling, supporting both environmental goals and industry growth.
Talk to us about recycling your lithium batteries
Whether you’re a mobility operator, automotive manufacturer, fleet manager, or waste handler, our specialist team can help you manage your lithium batteries safely while making a positive impact on the environment.
Call us on: 0208 0907 300
Email: hello@lithiumbatteryrecycling.co.uk