[&eye]

What are the long-term environmental issues with Li-Ion batteries? Eventually they will need to be decommissioned... What happens when the battery can't hold a charge anymore? Can the parts be recycled? Are they toxic? What will people do with their old dead Li-Ion batteries?

 

[Texas]

Lithium is non-toxic and is the 33rd most abundant element on earth. Surprised? I was. I would be more than surprised if there's not a complete recycle program for every car. Anyway, here's an interesting read on lithium and lithium-ion:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lithium
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lithium_ion_battery

 

[kengrubb]

Tesla on their battery recycling.
http://www.teslamotors.com/blog4/?p=66

I suspect Chevy will have to step up to the plate on battery recycling, and hopefully before the Volt is in showrooms.

 

[DaltonFiske]

Ultrasonic Cavitation Technology

Here's am interesting video from Lithium Exploration Group about an economic and efficient desalination technology they're employing:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KNABCcA46Ao&feature=share

It's nice to see a company that is both up-front and compassionate about their bottom line.