The start-up Circu Li-ion and Amazon are working to extend the lifespan of batteries in logistics processes. In an automated process, the batteries are dismantled, and the individual cells are checked to determine whether they can be reused or recycled. By reusing batteries from electric vehicles more effectively, Amazon aims to reduce the demand for new batteries and lower the associated carbon footprint. Circu Li-ion is supported by the Amazon Sustainability Accelerator program, which provides financial and knowledge-based support to sustainability start-ups.
Our participation in the Amazon Sustainability Accelerator is driven by our goal to revolutionize the battery industry and recycle three billion batteries by 2040.
“Our participation in the Amazon Sustainability Accelerator is driven by our goal to revolutionize the battery industry and recycle three billion batteries by 2040”, says Antoine Welter, CEO and co-founder of Circu Li-ion. “We are proud to be part of a program that supports more sustainable innovations, and we are pleased to develop further in collaboration with Amazon to continue making a positive impact on the climate.”
During the six-month pilot, Circu Li-ion and Amazon will jointly process batteries from electric vehicles in Amazon’s delivery network using Circu Li-ion’s technology. This allows for more granular recycling, enabling a higher degree of waste avoidance and reuse. The collaboration helps Amazon reduce its need for new batteries, while Circu Li-ion can serve as a model for other companies seeking to electrify their logistics. Currently, the company has two locations in Karlsruhe (Germany) and Foetz (Luxembourg).
This forward-looking program highlights Amazon’s commitment to supporting innovation and driving positive change.
During the Sustainability Accelerator program, Circu Li-ion gains insights into how global companies implement sustainability initiatives. The program also provides participants with access to networks and a tailored curriculum. “This forward-looking program highlights Amazon’s commitment to supporting innovation and driving positive change,” says Justine Mahler, Sustainability Director at Amazon. “By testing unique and innovative technologies in real-world conditions, we not only reduce our environmental impact but also create a blueprint for more sustainable practices across the entire industry.”
Circu Li-ion can serve as a model for other companies seeking to electrify their logistics.
Since its launch in 2022, the Amazon Sustainability Accelerator has supported more than 40 start-ups in the UK and Europe, provided over 1 million euros in grants and loans, and helped these companies increase their revenue by an average of 700%, raising more than 18.7 million euros to date.
Article in German via Amazon.de