Munich-based startup Tozero is entering into a strategic partnership with JGC Japan Corporation. Together, they aim to establish and further develop recycling technology for lithium-ion batteries in Japan. The collaboration is based on a signed letter of intent from both companies. The goal is to build a long-term cooperation in the field of battery recycling.
“We need partners who share our commitment”
Tozero brings its proprietary technology for sustainable recovery of critical raw materials such as lithium and graphite to the partnership. JGC Japan complements this expertise with decades of experience in engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) of large-scale industrial projects.
“To bring lithium-ion battery waste to zero, we need partners who share our commitment. JGC Japan combines global reach with deep technical know-how to help us realize this vision. With nearly a century of experience in executing complex technical projects, JGC Japan is well-positioned to support our global scale-up and strengthen the stability of the supply chain for critical battery materials”,
says Sarah Fleischer, CEO and co-founder of Tozero.
Initial concrete plans include the potential establishment of a hydrometallurgical recycling facility in Japan. In the long term, the partners are aiming for a global expansion of activities.
Japan is betting on sustainable battery materials
The cooperation between Tozero and JGC Japan is entering a market with high strategic ambitions: Japan’s lithium-ion battery sector is considered forward-looking and is driven by strong government investment and international industry players. While Japan’s electric vehicle industry is still in its early stages compared to other regions, its potential is considered considerable. At the same time, battery recycling is becoming increasingly important. New facilities are being built to recover valuable raw materials and strengthen supply chain security.
Tozero is pursuing the goal of establishing a waste-free process for recovering lithium and graphite – regardless of battery type. In Germany, the first commercial demonstration facility is currently being built. By 2027, it is expected to achieve annual production of over 2,000 tons of recycled graphite and more than 1,500 tons of recycled lithium.
