Lithium-ion batteries: An ethical dimension?

One of the emerging trends in data centers is the use of lithium ion (Li-ion) batteries, both for distributed and centralized uninterruptible power supplies. Research by Uptime Institute and others predicts high levels of adoption in the years ahead. The primary reasons for this are technical, relating to energy density, rechargeability and management. But Li-ion energy storage is also regarded as a key component in renewable energy distribution, which is being adopted primarily to reduce carbon emissions.

But one question keeps coming up that has, on occasion, put proponents of Li-ion on the defensive: How “green” — and how ethically responsible — are Li-ion batteries? Is there an environmental dimension to the use of Li-ion technologies?