The electric vehicle (EV) revolution is here, but there's a looming crisis most people aren't talking about: what happens to all those batteries when they die? Billions of pounds worth of valuable materials could end up in landfills if we don't act now. But here's where it gets exciting: Green Tech Industries (GTI) is not just acting—they're leading the charge. Less than a year after setting up shop in Southam, this ambitious EV battery recycling firm is already planning a major expansion, aiming to double its workforce from 10 to 20 employees.
GTI specializes in taking used EV batteries, breaking them down, and salvaging valuable components to re-enter the supply chain. Think of it as giving these batteries a second life, reducing waste, and conserving precious resources. Since its move to Sucham Park in April, the company has been hard at work, but its vision goes far beyond its current operations.
And this is the part most people miss: GTI isn't just recycling batteries—it's building a blueprint for the future. Chief Executive Tony Booth, a Coventry native, envisions a Midlands-based technology center and centre of excellence that will showcase the company's innovative processes. "This factory will be a testament to what we can achieve," Booth explains. "It’s about proving to the industry that sustainable solutions aren’t just possible—they’re profitable."
Booth’s journey began in 2018 when he spotted a critical gap in the green economy: the lack of robust recycling solutions for EV batteries. Since then, he’s invested heavily in developing processes to strip, repurpose, and recertify battery components, ensuring they meet industry standards. But GTI’s mission goes deeper. Booth, a graduate of Coventry’s President Kennedy School, is passionate about giving back to his community. "We’re not just creating jobs—we’re building opportunities," he says. "Our local recruitment drive is designed to welcome people from all backgrounds, even those without prior engineering experience. We’ll train them on-site and help them grow."
Here’s where it gets controversial: While GTI’s model is undeniably innovative, it raises questions about the broader EV industry. Are manufacturers doing enough to ensure their products are truly sustainable? And what role should governments play in incentivizing recycling over disposal? Booth doesn’t shy away from these questions. "We’re seeing cars written off because there’s nowhere to fix them—that’s a systemic issue," he notes. "Recycling is part of the solution, but it’s not the whole answer."
As GTI expands, it’s not just growing a business—it’s sparking a conversation. What do you think? Is the EV industry doing enough to address its waste problem? Or is it up to companies like GTI to lead the way? Let us know in the comments—this is a discussion we all need to be part of.
