Vianode is a pioneering company in sustainable battery materials, specialising in advanced synthetic graphite anode production for lithium-ion batteries. Committed to environmental stewardship, Vianode utilises cutting-edge technology and renewable energy sources to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of its products. This innovative approach not only enhances battery performance but also supports the global transition to clean energy and electric vehicles, driving sustainability and efficiency in the battery materials industry.

To further its sustainability goals, Vianode engaged Minviro to conduct a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of its synthetic graphite anode production process. The primary objective was to quantify the carbon footprint and other environmental impacts in comparison to conventional graphite production methods, highlighting Vianode's commitment to sustainability and innovation.

Minviro's assessment adhered to ISO 14040:2006 and ISO 14044:2006 standards, ensuring a rigorous and independent review. The LCA evaluated critical factors such as energy sources, material inputs, and emissions throughout the production lifecycle, focusing on the production of one kilogram of synthetic graphite anode material. This included an analysis of scope 1 (direct emissions), scope 2 (indirect emissions from energy consumption), and scope 3 (other indirect emissions) CO₂ emissions. The assessment began with a detailed inventory of all inputs and outputs associated with Vianode’s production process, encompassing raw material extraction, transportation, and processing. By incorporating renewable energy sources, the LCA provided a holistic view of Vianode's production process and its environmental impacts.

The results revealed that Vianode’s synthetic graphite anode production process achieves a 90% reduction in CO₂ emissions compared to conventional methods. This reduction is primarily due to Vianode’s efficient production techniques, which minimise waste and maximise material recovery. The analysis indicated that one kilogram of Vianode’s synthetic graphite anode material has a climate impact of just 1.9 kg CO₂ equivalents. Vianode aims to further reduce emissions to 1.0 kg CO₂ per kilogram of graphite by 2030, reflecting its commitment to continuous improvement and environmental sustainability.

Overall, the findings of the LCA highlight the significant environmental benefits of Vianode’s production process. By leveraging renewable energy and innovative methods, Vianode effectively reduces the carbon footprint of battery materials, aligning with broader goals of emission reduction within the electric vehicle (EV) and battery value chain. The LCA utilised supplier-specific data for 67% of the scope 3 emissions, ensuring high accuracy and reliability.

Lydia Bridges and Joshua Armstrong, sustainability consultants and graphite specialists at Minviro, emphasised that Vianode’s synthetic anode graphite production offers a notably low CO₂ footprint, making a substantial contribution to emission reductions in the battery and EV sectors without compromising product quality. The LCA results reinforce Vianode’s leadership in sustainable battery materials and underscore its commitment to continuous improvement and environmental stewardship.

Testimonial from Andreas Forfang,
Vice President Sustainability & Public Affairs at Vianode

When starting our forward-looking LCA, we placed great emphasis on credibility and data quality. For that reason we looked for an LCA partner with industry specific knowledge and a reputation for integrity. Following a screening of consultancies, we decided Minviro was the best choice, and we never regretted that. Minviro has in-depth knowledge of the battery materials industry, which is crucial when assessing scope 3 data quality. Their industry experience provided us with insight that strengthened the data quality of our LCA. We also benefited from their wide network of critical reviewers, which ensured a solid third-party review. Together with Minviro, we’ve modelled an LCA with high credibility, which allows us to present the LCA to our business partners with comfort. In addition, it forms a solid basis for many of our sustainability targets, and thus has created value beyond compliance.