Circular Economy as a Driver of the Energy Transition: Mapping the Management of Lithium-Ion Batteries in Brazil

This study analyzes the role of the circular economy (CE) in Brazil's energy transition, focusing on the management of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) used in electric vehicles (EVs). Through the framework of reflexive governance, it examines public policies, industrial initiatives, and innovation projects that promote sustainability in the LIB value chain. Initiatives such as the pilot production plant in Curitiba and the local production of batteries by companies like BYD and Bravo Motor Company highlight Brazil's capacity to foster innovation, reduce costs, and create local employment. Additionally, the integration of CE practices, such as recycling and reuse, enables more efficient resource management, aligning with global decarbonization goals. This study identifies key initiatives driving a transition towards a circular economy for a more sustainable future.