To achieve a sustainable supply chain for electric vehicles, especially from the mining of key battery inputs, we’ll need global reforms on how mining is conducted. These reforms will need to be everything everywhere all at once, and I offer some suggestions how in this new op-ed in The Hill:

Advocates can help…by supporting laws that require automakers (and energy storage companies) to source battery minerals from companies and countries that adhere to strict standards to protect local communities, such as [the Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance, or IRMA]. Advocates and philanthropies can also support local advocates in key mineral-producing countries, by arming them with the resources they need to effect change within their jurisdictions, including via anti-corruption measures such as improved transparency requirements and whistleblower protections. Finally, policymakers can work to reduce the overall demand for new mining, such as through mandates and infrastructure planning for battery reuse and recycling, as well as promote demand reduction through more public transit, walking and biking — an important complement to electrifying transportation.

Meanwhile, the situation has only become more urgent with proposed deep sea mining that could happen as soon as later this year, if an international agency charged with regulating the seafloor outside of national boundaries doesn’t take action. I discussed this prospect recently with the Washington Post and KCBS radio in San Francisco.

Ultimately, the success of electric vehicles is a good thing. But we can’t repeat the mistakes of the past with harmful fossil fuel extraction. Sustainable supply chains, including responsible mining, must be a top priority for reformers around the world.