Samsung Electronics is pioneering sustainability with its commitment to preserving the planet’s natural resources. By advancing the use of recycled materials in Galaxy devices, the company has taken significant strides in fostering a circular economy. Following the groundbreaking introduction of recycled cobalt in the Galaxy S24 series, Samsung is now elevating its efforts with the Galaxy S25, featuring batteries made with 50% recycled cobalt.
This development is made possible through Samsung’s new Circular Battery Supply Chain, a multi-phase process that recovers cobalt from used Galaxy batteries and manufacturing scrap. Let’s dive into the details of how Samsung is paving the way for a more sustainable future.
The Need for Cobalt Recycling
Cobalt is a critical component in lithium-ion batteries, powering devices like smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles. However, the extraction of cobalt from natural resources is associated with significant environmental and ethical challenges. By prioritizing recycled cobalt, Samsung not only reduces the demand for virgin materials but also lessens the ecological impact of mining.
How Samsung’s Circular Battery Supply Chain Works
Samsung’s Circular Battery Supply Chain involves a meticulous process to recover and reuse cobalt, ensuring minimal waste. Here’s how the process unfolds:
1. Collection of Used Devices
Samsung collects previously used Galaxy smartphones through trade-in programs and recycling initiatives. These efforts ensure that devices no longer in use are given a second life.
2. Battery Dismantling and Discharge
The collected devices are carefully dismantled, with batteries removed and safely discharged to prevent safety hazards. This step is crucial for the secure handling of battery materials.
3. Shredding and Black Mass Production
The discharged batteries are shredded to create “black mass,” a powder mixture containing cobalt and other valuable metals. Black mass serves as the starting material for extracting essential components.
4. Cobalt Extraction
The black mass undergoes advanced chemical processes to extract cobalt. The recovered cobalt is refined and repurposed to produce cathode material, a vital element of smartphone batteries.
5. Manufacturing New Batteries
The recycled cobalt is integrated into the final stage of battery production. Each Galaxy S25 battery incorporates 50% recycled cobalt, reducing reliance on newly mined materials and supporting Samsung’s sustainability goals.
Scaling Circularity Across the Galaxy Ecosystem
Samsung plans to extend its Circular Battery Supply Chain to other devices in the Galaxy ecosystem. By scaling the use of recycled cobalt and other materials, Samsung is reinforcing its commitment to a sustainable future.
Benefits of Samsung’s Recycling Initiative
1. Environmental Impact Reduction
Recycling cobalt reduces greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption compared to mining virgin materials. It also minimizes the environmental degradation caused by mining activities.
2. Ethical Sourcing
By utilizing recycled materials, Samsung addresses ethical concerns surrounding cobalt mining, including labor rights and environmental justice.
3. Resource Optimization
The initiative maximizes the use of existing resources, aligning with the principles of a circular economy and reducing electronic waste.
Samsung’s Vision for a Sustainable Future
Samsung’s commitment to innovation extends beyond technological advancements to encompass environmental responsibility. By introducing a sustainable cobalt recycling process, Samsung is setting a new standard for the tech industry. The company’s efforts align with global goals for sustainability and demonstrate how corporations can drive positive change.
Watch Samsung’s Recycling Journey in Action
Discover how Samsung’s Circular Battery Supply Chain is shaping a greener tomorrow. Check out the video below to learn more about this innovative approach to sustainability.
By leading the way with recycled materials in its Galaxy devices, Samsung is proving that sustainability and innovation can go hand in hand. The Galaxy S25 is not just a smartphone – it’s a testament to Samsung’s vision for a better planet.
