Responsible battery disposal management practices: an investigation in the electric vehicle industry from a circular economy perspective

Global efforts to transition to electric vehicles (EV) for net-zero emissions have necessitated a focus on sustainable battery management. Despite the rapid growth of the EV industry, research on circular economy (CE) managerial approaches to battery disposal remains limited. This study addresses this gap by examining the current EV battery technology practices through the lens of the ReSOLVE framework. As this is an exploratory study, we have employed a qualitative methodology, gathering data from EV practitioners, OEMs, suppliers, logistics providers, and recyclers in the US, Europe, and China, augmented by additional literature reviews. Our analysis has revealed process and competency gaps in current battery disposal practices. We have developed a conceptual ReSOLVE framework specific to EV battery disposal, demonstrating a strong link between CE motivations, CE-enabling business practices, CE design systems, and business performance. Based on our analysis, we have suggested that new managerial procedures for handling rejected batteries and enhanced inter-organizational relationships are vital for CE implementation. We have proposed that CE motivations drive responsible business practices and CE-enabling design systems, which in turn improve business and sustainability performance in the EV and LIB industry. These results emphasize the importance of a holistic, CE-driven management approach to EV battery disposal.