Lead: A Critical Mineral for a Sustainable Future

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) recently made a historic update. On November 7, it added lead to the 2025 List of Critical Minerals. This recognition underscores what many in the battery and recycling industries have known for decades: lead is essential to America's economy, energy resilience, and environmental future.

So, what makes this news so important?

Why Lead Matters

Lead is the world's most recycled consumer product and the backbone of the lead battery. These batteries power everything from cars and trucks to renewable energy storage systems, forklifts, and backup power grids. With a recycling rate of over 99%, the lead battery industry stands as a model for true circular manufacturing and keeping valuable materials in use and out of landfills.

A Stronger U.S. Supply Chain

By adding lead to the Critical Minerals List, the USGS has highlighted the need for a secure and sustainable domestic supply. This move recognizes that recycling lead in the U.S. not only supports jobs and the industry; it also strengthens the nation's ability to meet growing energy demands without relying on imported materials.

East Penn's Role in the Circular Economy

At East Penn Manufacturing, we've prioritized sustainability since day one. Though the word "sustainability" wasn't used when we started nearly 80 years ago, its principles still existed: renew, recycle, reuse. Our state-of-the-art recycling operations ensure that nearly every part of a lead battery can be reclaimed, refined, and reused, reducing waste and carbon emissions while preserving critical materials right here at home.

To explore what this designation means for the industry and overall sustainability efforts, read the full Battery Council International article here: USGS formally designates lead a critical mineral.