Because externalities of lithium extraction like using aquifers for evaporation ponds and the pollution from the leftover brine aren’t included in the cost of new lithium production, thus making less environmentally impactful methods of recovery too expensive to justify.
Note that this is not a catch with this recycling process (necessarily, anyway; the article doesn’t get into too many specifics) but rather an end-run to make lithium mining and refining appear less awful than it actually is.
Mining new lithium may be “cheaper” in raw dollars and cents provided only you don’t include the environmental impact or the costs of dealing with the same as a line item on the invoice.
You don’t need to shoot them with a gun. Bow and arrows allows for more skill expression and are renewable alternatives. Not to mention that it is a great workout routine.
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Because externalities of lithium extraction like using aquifers for evaporation ponds and the pollution from the leftover brine aren’t included in the cost of new lithium production, thus making less environmentally impactful methods of recovery too expensive to justify.
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Note that this is not a catch with this recycling process (necessarily, anyway; the article doesn’t get into too many specifics) but rather an end-run to make lithium mining and refining appear less awful than it actually is.
Mining new lithium may be “cheaper” in raw dollars and cents provided only you don’t include the environmental impact or the costs of dealing with the same as a line item on the invoice.
So do I undertand you correctly it’s just an “eventuality option simulation” to lower the environmental footprint?
Like for example the listed WLTP* Kw/h / fuel consumption of cars in perfect (lab)conditions which never exist?
*Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure
It’s probably not cheaper than just shooting orphans for sport.
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You don’t need to shoot them with a gun. Bow and arrows allows for more skill expression and are renewable alternatives. Not to mention that it is a great workout routine.
You can also reuse the arrows.
Some need to be discarded and some will be used for the trophy case, but overall a very green and humane hobby.