Livium formalises CATL recycling pact

ASX-listed Livium says a framework contract with Contemporary Amperex Technology Co’s (CATL) Hong Kong business unit can deepen its connection with the Chinese lithium-ion battery heavyweight.

Livium says formalisation of its working relationship with CATL, through subsidiary Envirostream Australia “reflects their confidence in Envirostream’s recycling capabilities and operational standards”.

“Under the agreement Envirostream will provide battery collection, logistics and recycling services, including dismantling, processing to black mass, certification of recycling and destruction reporting in accordance with regulatory and customer requirements,” Livium CEO Simon Linge said.

Services would still be delivered under individual purchase orders agreed between the parties, as per previous arrangements.

The new agreement is also non-exclusive and does not contain minimum volume commitments, “with pricing and scope to be determined on a case-by-case basis”.

Linge said formalising the CATL connection created a platform for continued collaboration as battery volumes increased in Australia.

The country’s Association for the Battery Recycling Industry said in March this year A$2.1 billion of annual battery materials recovery in Australia could grow to $6.9 billion by 2050.

An ABRI-commissioned report on the sector, prepared by Positive Economics Advisory, provided the first comprehensive snapshot of Australia’s rapidly growing battery circular economy, the association said.

“As battery use grows across manufacturing equipment, electric vehicles and energy storage we have a chance to build a strong domestic industry that keeps valuable materials in circulation, supports regional jobs and further strengthens Australia’s position in the global critical minerals supply chain,” ABRI CEO Katharine Hole said.