As part of our interview series of partners, let us introduce ITL - Institute for Transport and Logistics Foundation.
Why did ITL join the FREE4LIB project? How is that articulated with ITL’s purpose and missions?
At the Institute for Transport and Logistics Foundation (ITL), our mission has always been to foster innovation and efficiency in logistics and transport systems, particularly in advancing sustainable mobility and supply chains. Joining the FREE4LIB project aligns perfectly with these goals, enabling us to apply our logistics expertise to the critical challenge of battery circularity. We contribute by collecting data and analyzing the current end-of-life (EoL) battery value chain, considering industry trends in the short to medium term. Additionally, we engage stakeholders across the value chain to raise awareness of project results and promote the exploitation of scientific innovations through circular business models and targeted dissemination campaigns.
During the first half of the project, ITL was concretely involved in the identification of actors across the End-of-Life battery value chain and to analysis of regulation applying to the management of EoL batteries. Can you tell us more about your work?
In the initial phase of FREE4LIB, ITL conducted a comprehensive mapping of key-actors in the EoL battery value chain, identifying stakeholders such as producers, recyclers, logistics providers, and regulatory bodies. We also analyzed national and EU-level regulations governing EoL battery management, highlighting gaps and challenges affecting collection, transport, and recycling processes.
In the next months, FREE4LIB will prepare policy recommendations to share with European and national decision-makers. How could ITL contribute to these activities?
ITL will contribute by leveraging our expertise in logistics and supply chain-analysis to provide evidence-based insights for policy recommendations. Building on end-of-life (EoL) battery flows data and industry trends, our aim is to highlight key logistical challenges and explore potential solutions for collection, transport, and recycling processes. Additionally, we will engage relevant stakeholders and foster dialogue between industry players and policymakers to work on practical and sustainable policy outcomes. Leveraging our experience in regional and EU-level projects, we will help shape recommendations that support a circular battery value chain while aligning with broader EU objectives.
Tell us a bit more about ITL:
The Institute for Transport and Logistics Foundation (ITL) is a not-for-profit body based in Bologna and founded little more than 20 years ago by the Emilia-Romagna regional authority. ITL’s mission is to support the development of efficient and sustainable logistics and transport systems in the Emilia-Romagna Region through research, innovation, consultancy and training activities.
ITL contributes to the growth of the logistics and mobility sectors by participating in national and European projects, as well as by facilitating network relationships among public authorities, private companies and educational institutions.
For more information on ITL: https://www.fondazioneitl.org/en/about-us/
For information on ITL’s EU-funded projects: https://www.fondazioneitl.org/en/european-projects/
