#Japan #Tokyo #lithium-ion batteries #VOLTA

VOLTA's Sustainable Battery Recycling Initiative in Tokyo

Introduction

In response to the increasing number of fires caused by lithium-ion batteries during waste processing, VOLTA, a subsidiary of EnviPro Holdings, has been selected as a partner in a groundbreaking project initiated by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government. This project focuses on safe and efficient recycling of lithium-ion batteries, ensuring public safety and reducing recycling costs for local municipalities.

Background

With the surge in products utilizing lithium-ion batteries, the collection and processing of these batteries have become critical issues. Reports indicate a dramatic increase in fire incidents during the collection and disposal processes, posing risks to waste collection vehicles and processing facilities. Current collection routes are limited, as they are dependent on manufacturers or local municipal programs that often face challenges, such as scarcity of processing operators and high operational costs.

To tackle this problem, the Tokyo government has initiated a model project to facilitate the large-scale collection and recycling of these batteries from multiple municipalities. This innovative approach aims to enable efficient aggregation and sale of materials to recycling operators, thus promoting resource recovery and recycling initiatives across the region.

Scope of the Collaboration

From June 12, 2025, to March 31, 2026, VOLTA will safely collect various battery types from participating municipalities in the Tokyo area, including:
1. Lithium-ion batteries
2. Mobile batteries, even those that have expanded or burned
3. Nickel-hydride batteries
4. NiCad batteries
5. Lead-acid batteries
6. Small products containing lithium-ion batteries

VOLTA’s Recycling Capabilities

1. Safe and Efficient Recycling Processes

VOLTA leverages advanced recycling technologies to responsibly manage a variety of lithium-ion batteries. The company has developed comprehensive processes that include discharging, drying, crushing, and sorting, allowing for the extraction of valuable rare metals such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel. VOLTA is recognized as a certified reprocessing operator and has established partnerships with multiple municipalities, gradually increasing the volume of batteries being processed.

2. Collaborative Recycling with EnviPro Group

The EnviPro Group brings years of expertise in resource recovery, ensuring not just batteries, but also metal and plastic composites from battery housings and accessories are recycled effectively. This enables the group to accept and recycle not only standalone batteries but also products containing batteries, fostering a more integrated recycling approach.

3. Commitment to Low-Carbon Recycling

Being a member of the RE100 initiative, VOLTA is dedicated to sourcing 100% renewable energy for its operations. The Fuji and Fujinomiya factories utilize renewable energy sources ensuring that the CO2 emissions during the battery recycling process are minimized, thus contributing to a sustainable future.

Contribution to Fire Prevention and Improved Municipal Revenues

Through this initiative, VOLTA aims to play a significant role in preventing the rising number of fire incidents linked to lithium-ion batteries. By optimizing transportation costs and facilitating battery collection, municipalities can experience improved financial outcomes. Looking ahead, VOLTA plans to expand its operations to other municipalities, seeking solutions to various social challenges.

Company Overview

• - Name: VOLTA Inc.
• - Location: 55-1 Ohno, Fujishi, Shizuoka
• - CEO: Kenta Imai
• - Business Focus: Recycling of lithium-ion and nickel-hydride rechargeable batteries
• - Establishment: January 10, 2018
• - Ownership: 100% by EnviPro Holdings (TSE Prime: 5698)
• - Capital: 400 million JPY
• - Website: VOLTA Official Site

Conclusion

The partnership between VOLTA and the Tokyo metropolitan government marks a significant stride towards enhancing battery recycling practices. Together, they aim to create a safer and more sustainable environment while paving the way for innovative solutions to tackle waste management challenges.