Northvolt joins the Fair Cobalt Alliance
The Fair Cobalt Alliance (FCA) was founded in 2020 and describes itself as a multi-stakeholder NGO that aims to strengthen and professionalize the artisanal and small-scale mining sector in Congo and contribute to local economic development as a whole. In addition to Northvolt, Tesla and, according to the NGO’s website, Freyr, Glencore and LG Energy Solution are also active members.
Northvolt states that it is “not ready to source cobalt from artisanal and small-scale mining at this stage” at this stage, but is convinced that the solution lies not in avoidance but in engagement. Northvolt intends to “bring its voice and perspective to the issue” by participating in the Fair Cobalt Alliance.
Commenting on Northvolt joining, Ambassador Henric Råsbrant of the Swedish Embassy in Kinshasa said: “I am pleased to see Northvolt’s inclusion in the Fair Cobalt Alliance, a crucial step in their commitment to sustainable battery value chains in the DRC. Swedish companies are known for pioneering sustainable solutions, dedicated to advancing a global, just, and green transition, while the DRC is a country immensely rich in resources, which should benefit the Congolese population. Collaboration between the private sector and NGOs is key to improving the implementation of ethical mining practices in the region.”
According to Northvolt’s corporate headquarters: “The responsible way forward for the battery industry is through the development of the DRC, however hard it may be.” Open collaboration is a crucial tool in this work, and Northvolt encourages its partners, investors and customers to support it.
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