Digital product passports for electric vehicle batteries: Stakeholder requirements for sustainability and circularity

Abstract

Implementing a Digital Product Passport (DPP) for Electric Vehicle Batteries (EVBs) is crucial for fostering sustainability and circularity within the EVB value chain. While a growing number of related concepts are becoming available, the understanding of DPP-related stakeholder perceptions is limited. Therefore, this study evaluates the information requirements of EVB value chain actors, focusing on the importance, availability, and accessibility of specific information attributes necessary for the DPP. The study follows a mixed-method approach, beginning with qualitative data collection through literature reviews and expert consultations, followed by a survey (n = 46) targeting stakeholders across EVB lifecycle phases and the conduct of an importance-availability analysis. The results cover, firstly, a comprehensive list of 40 information attributes, divided into sustainability and circularity-related information and general information. Secondly, the study reveals the perceived importance and availability of these information attributes through the lens of actors from the Beginning of Line (BoL), End of Life (EoL), and Battery Second Use (B2U) phases. Also, it adds the specific perspectives of individual value chain actors - designers, B2U actors, and recyclers. Thirdly, a ranking of the most important actors for successfully implementing the DPP is presented. The results indicate a critical need for enhanced information availability and accessibility, particularly concerning sustainability and circularity-related data. This study provides theoretical and practical implications for sustainable EVB lifecycle management using DPPs.