Que: How does Recyclekaro plan to leverage the “Critical Mineral Mission” announced in the Budget 2024-25 to enhance its recycling technology?

Ans: The announcement of the Critical Mineral Mission is a welcome move and has been a long-awaited demand of the recycling industry. This mission, as the governing body for all affairs related to critical minerals in the country, will enable us as an organization to better address regulatory issues concerning the procurement and trading of critical materials. Additionally, the mission’s support for recycling critical materials at the policy level will be a significant boon for all recyclers across the nation. In the long term, I believe the Critical Mineral Mission will play a pivotal role in establishing the policies and structures necessary for a thriving circular economy.

Que: Can you discuss the role of advanced technology in Recyclekaro’s ability to extract over 90% of critical elements from lithium-ion batteries?

Ans: We primarily rely on the hydrometallurgical process, which has been time-tested by the industry and continuously optimized by us to achieve maximum efficiency. This process allows us to extract 95% to 97% of critical metals from end-of-life batteries and e-waste. Regarding the purity of these critical metals, we consistently meet market standards, matching the quality found in virgin metals.

Que: How will the budget’s customs duty exemptions affect Recyclekaro’s cost structure and pricing strategy?

Ans: As a company that recycles critical metals from e-waste and batteries, we essentially produce these metals. The exemptions in customs duty allow us to offer more competitive rates to our international buyers, which will result in passing on cost benefits to our customers outside of India. We also anticipate a rise in demand for critical metals internationally due to the rapid adoption of EV technology. In such a scenario, the customs duty exemption is indeed a welcome move.

Que: In what ways is Recyclekaro preparing to contribute to the government’s roadmap for moving ‘hard to abate’ industries to ‘emission targets’?

Ans: The Recyclekaro facility in Wada, Thane, is a zero-emission facility, meaning we do not pollute the environment with any toxic materials during our recycling of e-waste and batteries, which are typically hazardous. Recyclekaro also assists organizations in fulfilling their Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) targets, as we are one of the few players registered with the board. We are already contributing to the government’s roadmap for helping ‘hard to abate’ industries meet their emission targets by working closely with the government and participating in policy-making.

Que: How does Recyclekaro ensure that its operations support the circular economy principles promoted by the government?

Ans: Recyclekaro has a strict quality and compliance control department that ensures we adhere to the circular economy principles promoted by the Government of India. Our operations are continuously monitored to align with these principles.

Que: What is Recyclekaro’s approach to managing financial risks related to fluctuations in global mineral prices?

Ans: Financial risks associated with fluctuations in global material prices are inherent to the recycling business. While we cannot entirely control these fluctuations, we mitigate them by closely observing market trends and trading critical materials based on insights gained from this observation.

Que: How is Recyclekaro preparing to address any new regulatory challenges that may arise from the budget’s focus on critical minerals?

Ans: We always ensure that we operate within the legal framework and comply with government policies. As a responsible industry player, if any regulatory challenges arise that impact our efficiency and operations, we will engage with the government through appropriate channels to address these issues.