Nickel is a key part of an emission-free future — but its extraction could be costly to the environment
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As an essential ingredient in the batteries that power electric vehicle, nickel is set to play an important role in the transition to clean energy. The Russian company Nornickel is the world’s largest producer of the high-grade nickel needed for EVs and the company has faced criticism for the water and air pollution caused by its extraction of the metal. And now, there’s the war in Ukraine to factor in. Environment journalist Maddie Stone tells us how Europe’s demand for nickel conflicts with calls to cut ties with Russia, and she offers solutions for an energy transition that doesn’t cause more damage to the environment.