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Do EV/hybrid drivers thinking they're saving the planet consider the impact from manufacturing / disposing of batteries? NiMh and lithium-based batteries might
by seanp2k2 12y ago
Do EV/hybrid drivers thinking they're saving the planet consider the impact from manufacturing / disposing of batteries? NiMh and lithium-based batteries might not pollute locally, but mining / refining / manufacturing / shipping / disposal happens somewhere (probably in Asia), as does power generation (mostly from coal in the US).
I think a lot of the appeal of EVs / hybrids comes from the clean image, even though these vehicles still cause lots of pollution. It's the opposite problem of diesel vehicles, which, though more fuel-efficient than their equivalent gasoline-powered counterparts, emit a more opaque smoke, leading to people thinking they're worse for the environment.