Blue Whale CEO on the Battle for Rare Earths

The video discusses the dominance of China in cobalt processing, highlighting its control over the supply chain due to its presence in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Bluewell Materials, a company focused on recycling lithium-ion batteries, aims to provide an alternative source of critical metals. The economic viability of recycling is emphasized, with recycled materials often fetching a premium. Efforts are underway to establish domestic recycling facilities in the US, reducing reliance on foreign sources. The potential for recycled batteries to meet global demand is significant, though current collection rates in the US lag behind the EU. US policy initiatives are supporting recycling efforts, driven by geopolitical concerns and the need for a secure supply chain.

Discuss the potential future demand for recycled batteries in relation to global cobalt needs.

What is the current percentage of spent lithium ion batteries collected in the US compared to the EU?

What are the implications of President Xi's visit to a rare earths mine for US companies?