Clean energy calls for clean materials
As the world phases out fossil fuels in favor of clean energy, it is essential to strengthen ESG standards applied to materials that store renewable energy and power clean technologies.
The anode supply chain is brutally confronted with graphite's ESG risk, according to data from Benchmark's new graphite ESG report.
Only one natural graphite company is considered to have "industry-leading" ESG practices: Nouveau Monde Graphite.
“There is still a lack of ESG awareness in the current graphite industry and suppliers are not prepared for sustainability criteria being increasingly applied to Western supply chains, now and in the near future,” says Olivia Lin, an analyst at Benchmark.
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It is urgent for battery and EV manufacturers to secure a supply of graphite that meets the current and future ESG standards of the renewable energy industry.
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Outperforming all producers in the West, Africa and China, NMG is the only natural graphite company recognized by Benchmark in the "industry-leading" category, based on an exhaustive review of its practices, transparency and commitment to ESG principles.
Recent trade restrictions by the US and China on graphite materials reaffirm the importance of responsible sourcing; the Chinese-controlled graphite supply chain is now excluded from electric vehicle incentives in the US. |
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Benchmark's Sustainability Index selected only one "industry-leading" company in the natural graphite sector: Nouveau Monde Graphite.
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Japan's automotive industry eyes NMG
Battery and EV manufacturers are turning to sources outside China to secure critical minerals such as graphite. Japan's public media NHK visited the Matawinie Mine to report on NMG's commercial relationship with Mitsui & Co. and Panasonic Energy.
Watch the interview with Eric Desaulniers
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» COP28 Nations Reach First-Ever Deal to Move Away From Fossil Fuels
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Fossil fuels out, clean energy in! COP28 succeeded in reaching a historic climate agreement to move away from fossil fuels. This is a major step towards a more sustainable future, supported by electrification and energy storage for renewable energies.
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» Graphite prices tick up following China’s proposed export regulations
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All natural graphite prices on an FOB basis have moderately increased due to growing demand for exported materials prior to the implementation of China's export regulations. Also, Chinese mines are expected to start their seasonal closures around mid-December, reducing supply and raising prices.
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» Are electric cars really better for the environment?
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EVs beat oil, period. In terms of both raw material extraction and carbon emissions, clean energy is far less harmful to the environment than its fossil fuel competitor, now and in the future.
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