Electric vehicle batteries waste management and recycling challenges: a comprehensive review of green technologies and future prospects

Electric vehicle (EV) batteries have lower environmental impacts than traditional internal combustion engines. However, their disposal poses significant environmental concerns due to the presence of toxic materials. Although safer than lead-acid batteries, nickel metal hydride and lithium-ion batteries still present risks to health and the environment. This study reviews the environmental and social concerns surrounding EV batteries and their waste. It explores the potential threats of these batteries to human health and the environment. It also discusses alternative methods to enhance EV-battery performance, safety, and sustainability, such as hybrid systems of green technologies and innovative recycling processes. Finding alternative materials for EV batteries is crucial to addressing current resource shortage risks and improving EV performance and sustainability. Therefore, the development of efficient and sustainable solutions for the safe handling of retired EV batteries is necessary to ensure carbon neutrality and mitigate environmental and health risks.