Citrecycle
Programme
Accelerate alumni
Sector
Construction/Engineering
Citrecycle has adapted new technology that unlocks the full potential of the lead-acid batteries (LAB) recycling industry in developing countries whilst simultaneously maintaining focus on development objectives. Citrecycle uses hydro metallurgy to recycle LAB in a safe, clean and sustainable way. We will utilise local independent co-operatives to collect the supply for recycling. Our ability to extract more value from each battery enables us to buy batteries at greater value than that that can be obtained from informal recycling. We can double the amount paid per battery, and still remain profitable, to ensure Citrecycle can absorb the informal recycling sector. Our process then recycles the batteries cleanly, using a Carbon neutral process. Hydro metallurgy inherently restricts poisonous emissions, slashes direct and indirect CO2 and operates profitably at smaller scales, 1000 tons per year rather than 50,000 – the size at which adequate pollution controls are considered to be cost effective. The scalable nature means that small, community directed plants will not replace the informal recyclers industry, but empower local communities by providing a cleaner and safer way to make money through localised employment. The replacement of informal LAB recycling practices with a safe provision that does not involve dangerous emissions, eradicates exposure of local communities and the environment to lead contamination, eliminating the risk of lead poisoning. The need for strong infrastructure for mass collection is overcome, sound legislation is unnecessary to regulate safety and exposure of local communities and the environment to lead contamination is prevented. Pollution, lead poisoning and fatality are replaced by job opportunities, prosperity, cleanliness and health.