Understanding the barriers to recycling critical raw materials for the energy transition: The case of rare earth permanent magnets

Abstract

Rising geopolitical tensions and the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic have intensified concerns about securing access to the critical raw materials (CRMs) that are needed for the energy transition. A group of 17 elements referred to as rare earth elements (REEs) are among the CRMs for which security of supply is increasingly becoming a matter of priority for governments around the globe. REEs are particularly important in the production of rare earth (RE) permanent magnets, which due to their properties are key components of green energy technologies. While it is generally acknowledged that recycling can help mitigate supply shortage risks for REEs, a full recycling chain has not yet been established in the EU. Focusing on RE permanent magnets, this study provides a qualitative-exploratory analysis of barriers to establishing full supply chain recycling processes in the EU. Data have been collected through in-depth interviews with industry experts from all steps of the magnets’ value chain as well as academics. According to our empirical findings, major barriers include limited information about the type of magnets included in end-of-life products, lack of recycling targets, lack of ecodesign requirements, difficulty in moving products across borders, lack of certification systems, high costs involved in the recycling processes, competition with magnets sourced from non-EU countries and missing segments of the RE value chain. Addressing the multitude of barriers in place would require coordinated action across several policy fields. • Rare earth permanent magnets are key for several technologies driving the energy transition. • The development of an EU recycling value chain for permanent magnets is halted by various barriers. • Key barriers stem from policies, economic factors, supply chains and technologies. • Coordinated policy action is needed to address barriers and regulatory gaps. • Action should target both the upstream and the downstream parts of the value chain.