It’s time for Europe to show its metal
by Lisa Allen, Director of Regulatory Affairs, ILA
Europe must protect the foundations of its existing industries while nurturing innovation
As Europe moves to boost its industrial capabilities with the Industrial Accelerator Act, one aspect of the EU’s approach to industry needs more attention.
While it’s great to see base metals being proposed for recognition as a strategic sector – policymakers still risk neglecting value chains and foundation industries that underpin the EU’s economic strength and security today.
Europe’s lead battery value chain is just one homegrown success story, as it plays an essential part in a wide range of economically vital industries.
As Europe proposes a new Industrial Accelerator Act and its leaders grapple with rapid changes in the geopolitical landscape, new competitive pressures from China and the United States continue to challenge old assumptions.
That’s why it is critical to build on the EU’s existing strengths – from producing lead metal to recycling and battery manufacturing – while boosting new innovation and manufacturing capabilities.
Advanced lead batteries are not only manufactured across multiple member states, but the raw materials are supplied by European producers and recyclers. They are made in Europe and recycled in Europe.
These are batteries used in conventional and electric vehicles, batteries that back-up data centres and other essential services, as well as batteries in defence applications, ranging from armoured vehicles to submarines.
Europe is a centre of excellence for this strategically significant battery technology, with ongoing research and innovation taking the batteries to new levels of performance and durability. While it is important to strengthen the EU’s battery capabilities in other technologies, legislators must continue to nurture and support Europe’s existing highly successful lead battery value chain.
Above all Europe must create a battery eco-system that fosters all relevant technologies.
It’s time for the EU to show its metal (sic) and back its industrial base while boosting investment in the future.
