Ascend Elements and GEM Partner to Boost Battery Recycling and Materials Production in Europe

According to a joint announcement, U.S.-based Ascend Elements and China’s GEM Co., Ltd. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore cooperation on lithium-ion battery recycling and engineered materials production across Europe. It is reported that the agreement will help accelerate the development of a localized and sustainable battery materials ecosystem in line with the European Union’s regulatory framework, which emphasizes recyclability, traceability, and the use of recycled content.

Sources noted that the collaboration combines GEM’s long-standing expertise in large-scale recycling and materials manufacturing with Ascend Elements’ established commercial presence in Europe. By doing so, the two companies aim to build a regional network for battery recycling, recovery of critical minerals, and production of engineered materials, creating a circular supply chain that both meets regulatory requirements and supports market growth.

“This partnership with Ascend Elements is a milestone in realizing GEM’s vision for a greener and more sustainable future,” said Professor Xu Kaihua, Chairman of GEM.

According to the company statement, Linh Austin, President & CEO of Ascend Elements, highlighted that the cooperation “de-risks our European strategy and accelerates our ability to deliver a fully localized battery ecosystem.”

Industry analysts pointed out that the timing of the MOU is significant. As the EU Battery Regulation and the forthcoming Battery Passport reshape standards for the sector, collaborations of this nature are seen as essential for securing critical mineral supplies, strengthening Europe’s energy security, and supporting the surging demand from electric vehicles and renewable energy storage.

It is widely expected that by leveraging GEM’s recycling technologies and Ascend Elements’ regional footprint, the two companies will play a pivotal role in advancing Europe’s transition toward a more circular and sustainable battery industry.

Source: Ascend Elements