Is the Green Revolution as green as it claims to be?

Electric vehicles, are back with renewed urgency as we confront a climate crisis. But is the Green Revolution as green as it claims to be?

Linet Mumo

13 Nov 2024 — 6 min read

Powering a Cleaner Future

Electric vehicles (EVs) aren’t new; they existed long before becoming a modern trend. Infact ,their origins date back to the early 18th century , when the idea of a silent, emission-free vehicle was already a reality. However, as technology relentlessly advanced, the world became captivated by oil and the allure of industrialization. This shift temporarily overshadowed the promise of EVs, pushing them into the background.

In the modern era, Evs are experiencing a powerful revival from their once-muted existence. But what happened in between? Why did electric cars become less popular, only to emerge stronger than ever before?

*Woman driving an electric car in the 1910s*

The Early Rise and Fall of EVs

In the early 18th century, various types of vehicles existed, including steam-powered cars that required a long time to start, especially in cold weather, and gasoline cars that, while promising, were noisy, difficult to operate, and emitted strong odors.

In contrast, battery-powered electric cars were clean, quiet, and preferred by many urban dwellers and women. By the late 1800s, EVs made up nearly 40% of American vehicles, largely due to their lack of exhaust fumes and quieter operation. However, high costs, limited range, and inefficient batteries challenged their practicality, making them twice as expensive as gas-powered cars and restricting long-distance travel.

In 1908, gasoline cars gained dominance due to their longer range, higher speeds, and affordability, especially with Henry Ford’s introduction of the Model T. Industrialization encouraged mass production techniques, which significantly lowered prices and improved accessibility. Better roads and abundant Texas crude oil further favored gasoline vehicles, overshadowing EVs.

By 1935, the presence of EVs in the market had significantly declined, nearly resulting in their disappearance. However, in the 1970s, growing concerns about air pollution and oil scarcity renewed interest in EVs, although these efforts had a limited impact.

The Modern Revival

EVs are once again in the spotlight due to urgent environmental concerns and the dwindling availability of fossil fuels. There is a renewed global focus on sustainability and the reduction of carbon emissions. Considered the future of transportation, EVs play a crucial role in the fight against climate change as they offer a cleaner alternative.

However, while modern Evs represent hope for many, their story is complex, particularly for Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

The Role of Cobalt and Ethical Concerns

Cobalt is an essential element in lithium-ion batteries that power EVs, as it improves stability and extends battery life. Initially, cobalt was primarily used in the production of blue ceramics and for manufacturing batteries for phones and other electronic devices. However, with the increasing global demand for EVs, the need for cobalt has surged, as car manufacturers aim to enhance the range and performance of their vehicles.

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) produces over 70% of the world’s cobalt supply. This wealth holds potential for the DRC but also poses significant challenges for the local population and the environment.

China plays a dominant role in the cobalt supply chain, as Chinese companies control much of the mining and processing infrastructure. They oversee 15 out of the 19 cobalt mines in DRC, having made significant investments to secure long-term leverage as the world moves towards cleaner energy. While this investment supports global EV production, it also raises concerns about resource dependency and offers limited economic benefits to the Congolese people.

Many miners work in artisanal and small-scale mining (ASM) under hazardous conditions, often without protective equipment. These unregulated operations expose both adults and children to unsafe environments as they extract the minerals powering the world’s "clean energy" vehicles. Communities living near these mines suffer from contaminated water sources and polluted soil, which pose health risks and lead to a loss of arable land. This raises the question, How "green" is the Green Revolution? , as its production methods often result in heightened pollution.

*Miners in the DRC. Photo courtesy of AFREWATCH.*

In response to these challenges, several companies are beginning to implement more sustainable and ethical sourcing practices. Some are investing in transparency within their supply chains, utilizing blockchain technology to trace the origin of cobalt and ensure it was sourced responsibly. These efforts often require more investment and commitment from manufacturers, but does this help address the root causes of the problem?

Missed Opportunities

The transition to EVs is not only a leap toward cleaner transportation but also an opportunity to address deeper economic, social, and environmental gaps. Below are strategic actions that could transform these missed opportunities into impactful solutions, promoting EV adoption and bridging gaps in EV infrastructure, accessibility, and environmental responsibility, particularly across Africa.

Action Plan Summaries:

Manufacturing and Job Creation

Offering tax breaks to EV manufacturers can drive job creation, lower costs for consumers, and foster industry growth, directly benefiting local economies.
Low-interest loans to establish and expand EV manufacturing facilities, along with funds to support e-mobility startups, can stimulate a resilient EV market.
Creating training programs to develop a skilled workforce ensures high-quality production and industry innovation.

Impact :

Increased manufacturing results in more job opportunities, helping to reduce unemployment and drive economic growth.
Research investments and skilled talent contribute to technological innovation, fostering industry advancements.
A robust EV industry diversifies the economy, reducing reliance on traditional energy sectors and increasing resilience.

Energy Independence and Stability

Developing solar, wind, and other renewable sources can reduce dependence on imported oil, stabilizing energy costs and boosting economic stability.
Offering subsidies for solar panel installations encourages widespread adoption and reduces dependency on fossil fuels.
Investing in energy storage ensures consistent power, even during fluctuations in renewable energy availability.

Impact :

Reducing oil dependence stabilizes energy costs, enhancing economic security.
Diversifying energy sources fosters independence from global oil price fluctuations and geopolitical tensions.
Long-term investments in renewables ensure sustainable energy, benefiting current and future generations.

Urban Infrastructure for E-Bikes

Separate bike lanes enhance safety, making electric bikes more viable in urban areas.
Installing charging stations in key locations like public transportation hubs and markets enables convenient charging, encouraging longer commutes.
Designated parking spaces deter theft and vandalism, making e-biking a practical option for city dwellers.
Implementing systems that prioritize e-bikes reduces congestion, making urban areas more navigable for all road users.
Working with urban planners to design e-bike-friendly cities ensures the infrastructure evolves with the needs of modern transport.

Impact:

Improved safety and convenience for e-bikers can reduce urban congestion and lower emissions.
Increased e-bike adoption fosters a shift toward sustainable transport, helping cities meet climate goals.
Urban infrastructure that accommodates e-bikes enhances quality of life, creating healthier and more connected communities.

Rural Development and Accessible Transport

Tailoring affordable EV programs for rural communities ensures clean and cost-effective mobility options.
Installing charging stations along rural routes promotes EV adoption, even in remote areas.
Providing financial support to farmers and businesses transitioning to EVs can accelerate adoption.

Impact:

Enhanced mobility connects remote areas to urban centers and markets, driving economic development in rural regions.
Affordable, eco-friendly transport supports agricultural productivity and economic stability.
Reducing emissions in rural areas preserves the environment, ensuring sustainable development in these communities.

*Andrew Kasuku/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images*

A Path Forward

Although full EV adoption in Africa is still developing, many countries have started integrating electric buses into their public transport systems. This initiative lays the foundation for a cleaner and more efficient transport network. This early transition to e-mobility shows sustainable urban development, tackling issues related to air quality and traffic congestion.

By focusing on robust electric bus networks, African cities can reduce reliance on private vehicles, easing congestion and promoting a cleaner environment. Improving public transport infrastructure will make sustainable mobility more accessible and convenient, driving a future with cleaner air, less traffic, and more resilient, eco-friendly cities.

As we move forward, the question remains: will the shift to electric vehicles be enough to reshape our cities and protect our planet? What role can we, as individuals and communities, play in creating transportation systems that serve both our needs and the environment? And, more importantly, are we ready to rethink not only how we get around, but also how we design our cities for a sustainable future?