North American OEMs are increasingly focused on supply chain collaboration with materials and component suppliers to work on LCA calculations as the starting point for their sustainability strategy, to figure out innovative solutions to reducing the carbon footprint whilst still remaining profitable.

Nonetheless, we are all aware of the challenges that the sector faces as it attempts to decarbonize. For example, the many techniques of calculating LCA are usually based on key assumptions, such as the vehicles usage phase, and there is a lack of a standardized approach if LCA reporting is to be consistent and ultimately, meaningful to customers.

Recycling non-metal raw materials remains a significant challenge for the sector, especially given the sectors reliance on cheaper plastics, reinforced composites, and exotic materials for the foreseeable future. Trade-offs need to be made between implementing a green material with a low level of embodied carbon but on the other hand, could be exceedingly difficult or expensive to recycle by mechanical recycling processes.

More collaboration across the supply chain is clearly needed to discover and develop new solutions. On the plus side, many companies are now working hard to create innovative new concepts for decarbonization and circularity in the automotive industry. And so, on that point, we're bringing together the leading thought leaders and innovators who engaging the supply chain and going to great lengths to find solutions.

Inaugural Live/Hybrid Event

For the latest instalment of the LCA, Circularity & Sustainable Materials Conference North America 2023 we're further innovating the conference. This is going to be our inaugural live/hybrid event for the North American market. There is still the option to attend virtually, however, attendees advised us that the face-to- face format is important for finding solutions and creative collaboration. We've also expanded the agenda to include discovering solutions for non-plastic materials and batteries, as well as sharing ideas on LCA calculations and a decarbonization strategy.

The first day focuses on the decarbonization plan, LCA calculations, and applying the circularity principles to non-metal materials. So, taking a look at the recycling of mixed material combinations combining plastics and composites. The entire second day is devoted to applying circularity principles to batteries and related components, including motors. Plus, looking at how new disruptive technologies in the form of synthetic, or e-fuels, and hydrogen usage in ICE engines could soon revolutionize the industry and take it in a new completely new direction.

Two Half-Day Workshops On LCA Calculations With Leading Technical Experts

Another significant innovation this year is a lot more time dedicated to collaboration, so we have two half-day workshops dedicated to the foundations of LCA calculations for tier one to tier two suppliers and then a second workshop dedicated to collaboration on standardizing the LCA calculation, all curated and facilitated by leading technical experts. Similarly, a significant portion of day two commits to finding solutions through collaboration on battery design for recycling. What does that road map entail? What are the paths that connect the recycling business with OEMs, battery producers, and mechanical players?