International Lithium Association: Global Lithium Supply Chain and ESG - Opportunities and Challenges [New Energy Summit]

At the Battery Raw Material Forum of the 2025 (10th) New Energy Industry Expo hosted by SMM Information & Technology Co., Ltd., Martin Ma, China GM of the International Lithium Association, shared insights on the topic "Global Lithium Supply Chain and ESG - Opportunities and Challenges." Demand Drivers: Improving air quality and human health; zero-carbon goals (decarbonized economy); EVs; energy storage solutions (ESS). Lithium has become a core element in climate policies and energy transition strategies aimed at achieving global decarbonization. Energy Revolution: We are experiencing a revolution, not a transition. According to 2024 media data, energy storage systems have increased by over 5,000% in the past decade; global EV sales have grown by 5,200% in the past decade; solar deployment has increased by 900% in the past decade; wind power deployment has increased by 200% in the past decade. Batteries underpin all of this. Global Lithium Battery Demand: Despite the current sluggish performance of the lithium market, global lithium battery demand is expected to see significant growth in the next decade. From 2024 to 2030, global lithium battery demand is projected to increase by 209% compared to 2024. Rapidly Growing Lithium Market - Challenges: New ESG guidelines and regulations; new lithium resources and geographical regions; ISO-TC333 lithium standards; refining technologies and DLE; new-type battery active materials - cathode, anode, electrolyte; higher energy density batteries; price discovery - CME, LME, GFEX, Abaxx, quotes, etc.; new end-use markets - electric mobility, ESS, robotics, etc.; recycling. Global Automotive Policy Announcements: Key US and EU Regulations: US: Inflation Reduction Act 2022; Defense Production Act 1950 (Enhanced) 2022; Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act 2021; Energy Act 2020 (Critical Materials). EU: Battery Regulation 2023; Critical Raw Materials Act 2023; Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence; EU Lithium Reclassification (CLP); EU Sustainable Activities Taxonomy. China: "30 Carbon Peak 60 Carbon Neutrality" Goal. Summary: The lithium industry is rapidly developing and will continue to grow for many years to come. Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) trends are clear and positive, and we all need to take responsibility to create and maintain a healthy lithium market. The International Lithium Association is the global representative voice for the entire lithium value chain. Click to view the special report on the 2025 (10th) New Energy Industry Expo.