Life cycle assessment of nickel, manganese, cobalt critical minerals: lithium hydroxide monohydrate (mine-to-material) in Québec, Canada

The production of electric vehicles (EVs) is rapidly expanding, particularly in North America, where new lithium-ion battery (LIB) and original equipment manufacturing (OEM) plants are being built. This has increased the demand for critical minerals, especially lithium. As the supply chain shifts from Asia, particularly from China to North America, there is a growing focus on sourcing these minerals locally, especially in Canada and the United States. Thus, establishing a sustainable LIB supply network is essential to minimize the detrimental environmental impacts. A life cycle assessment (LCA) is a key tool in achieving this goal. Québec, Canada, holds one of the world's largest deposits of spodumene ore, a major source of lithium. This study conducted an LCA of battery-grade lithium hydroxide monohydrate (LiOH•H 2 O) produced from Québec spodumene. Results show that producing one ton of LiOH•H 2 O emits approximately 5.46 tons of CO 2 -equivalent. This assessment serves as the foundation for a broader series of LCAs on all critical materials in battery production. Understanding the full environmental impact of EV batteries requires evaluating each stage, from raw material extraction to manufacturing, use, and disposal. Identifying emissions hotspots within the supply chain allows for targeted improvements. By applying this holistic approach, the EV industry can develop strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and ensure the transition to electric mobility is both sustainable and environmentally responsible. • LCA conducted for LiOH·H 2 O from Québec spodumene ore. • 1 ton of LiOH·H 2 O emits ∼5.46 tons of CO 2 -equivalent. • Supports sustainable EV battery supply chain in North America. • Identifies emissions hotspots across lithium processing stages. • Enables strategies for reducing EV battery environmental impacts.