Cobalt supply chain

The cobalt supply chain involves the process of sourcing, producing, and distributing cobalt, a key material used in batteries and electronics. Cobalt is mainly mined in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where mining conditions often raise ethical and environmental concerns. After extraction, cobalt undergoes refinement before being processed into forms usable for manufacturers. From there, it is supplied to companies that produce batteries for electric vehicles, smartphones, and other technologies. The entire process requires careful management to ensure sustainability and ethical practices, as demand for cobalt continues to rise with advancing technology.