Scientists use bacteria to recycle metals from old batteries for green tech

Scientists are using bacteria to extract rare metals from discarded batteries and electronic waste, a breakthrough that could support the future of green technology.

Robin McKie reports for The Guardian.

In short:

• University of Edinburgh researchers are using bacteria to recycle metals like lithium and cobalt from old electronics.
• These metals are crucial for electric cars, wind turbines and other green technologies, yet are in limited supply.
• Bacteria naturally latch onto and expel these metals, offering a sustainable recycling method.

Key quote:

“Bacteria are wonderful, little crazy things that can carry out some weird and wonderful processes.”

— Louise Horsfall, chair of sustainable biotechnology at the University of Edinburgh.

Why this matters:

The limited supply of rare metals needed for green technology is a major hurdle in combating climate change. Bacterial recycling could create a sustainable loop for these essential materials, reducing dependence on finite resources.

Be sure to read: Recycling critical metals from electronics could ease mining impacts