Sinocli has invested heavily in upgrading environmental protection technologies and facilities. "One of the risks is electrolyte leakage during the testing and disassembling processes. To tackle this problem, we've built cement floors and applied epoxy resin on top to prevent liquid from seeping through and contaminating the soil," Chen says. "We've also implemented special treatment measures for exhaust gases generated during the welding and assembly stages, and installed sensors and cameras to monitor the emissions of exhaust gases and wastewater in real time, aiming to minimize pollution and emissions."

Chen Zhonghua praised Huizhou's high environmental requirements for the electronics industry, suggesting that a dedicated industrial park for power battery recycling be set up as retired batteries are classified as hazardous material. "The storage and transportation of retired batteries call for specific facilities and protective measures. Centralized development plays a crucial role in both industrial growth and environmental protection."

When shredding batteries into materials for reuse, the environmental pollution risks primarily arise during burning, sieving and smelting. If improperly processed, exhaust gases, wastewater and residues could be generated, warns Sun Tao, project manager of Huizhou Ruicycle Environmental Technology Co. The company is also included in the "white list" of products that are considered acceptable.

However, Sun warns that smelting used batteries could create pollutants, but they can be produced only within a specific temperature range. "Therefore, we send the exhaust gases for secondary combustion in strictly controlled temperatures - high temperatures of around 800 degrees (C) and immediately cool them down - to prevent toxic substances from being formed," he explains.

To meet the growing demand for recycling facilities, Ruicycle aims to build more recycling factories domestically and internationally. The second phase of the company's factory in Huizhou is expected to double the size of the existing plant. Construction is due to be completed next year.

Contact the writer at grace@chinadailyhk.com