2024 JFIPP Research Fellow - Vivek Anand ASOKAN

Project Summary

In the proposal, we highlight the critical need for a shift to renewable energy to combat climate change, noting the significant materials requirements of clean technologies such as electric vehicles (EVs) and solar panels (PVs). We also highlight the potential of urban mining and recycling to reduce the need for virgin materials and increase supply chain resilience. However, challenges such as trade disruptions could hamper these efforts by increasing recycling costs. Better data can support collaboration between different stakeholders.

Despite discussions on the importance of clean technologies for decarbonization, there is a lack of national-level studies for developing countries. The existing literature does not adequately address this need - the literature mainly focuses on global assessments of material use and supply chain risks related to critical minerals in developed countries.

To this end, the study aims to establish a baseline of material demand and stock use to support regional circular economy initiatives in the ASEAN-5 countries and India. It also aims to identify policies and stakeholders involved in secondary resource management. The research design includes estimating material demand pathways and reviewing policies in ASEAN+5 countries and India. The material flow analysis quantifies material flows and stocks in the supply chain from production to disposal. The results are expected to support a regional circular economy framework for secondary resources and policy coordination, such as the provision of certification schemes and Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) guidelines to support regional recycling networks. The study supports the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) strategy of free flow of secondary resources leading to efficient supply chains while maintaining sound waste management systems and social protection.