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Scan or click QR code to Download whitepaper here ince their invention in 1985 ,

Lithium-ion ( li-ion ) battery technology has advanced significantly and is now capable of being used in applications that historically have been supported by lead acid or valve-regulated lead-acid ( VRLA ) batteries . One such application is uninterruptible power supplies ( UPSs ) in data centers 1 . But as the industry increasingly transitions to li-ion battery technology for these UPS applications , there is interest in understanding and questions that arise regarding the sustainability 2 implications of the transition . And as data center owners drive towards sustainable lifecycle practices , this topic increasingly comes up .

VRLA batteries have been used in data centers for decades , and as such , the hazards and environmental issues associated with them are well known . The industry is experienced in managing these batteries throughout their life cycle to minimize their environmental impact . On the other hand , the hazards and environmental issues associated with li-ion batteries are both less known and different than their lead acid counterparts , and the industry is still evolving . This makes it challenging to make an informed choice between the two battery technologies on the basis of environmental sustainability .

Decision makers are raising questions or concerns about the wisdom of selecting liion over VRLA , due largely to claims of child labor in the extraction of cobalt used in some chemistries of li-ion batteries , excessive carbon intensity to manufacture these batteries , concerns regarding their safety in transport and in use , and concerns regarding end of life management . �

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