BEST Magazine 10 September 2026

R3 Lithium restarts former Ascend Elements recycling plant

Why It Matters for ITAD

New technologies may create opportunities or challenges for equipment processing. Growing ESG focus creates opportunities for ITAD companies with strong sustainability credentials.

R3 Lithium has started operations at the former Ascend Elements battery recycling facility in Covington, Georgia, with plans to bring its recycled lithium carbonate line into continuous commercial production in 2027. The new company acquired the 14,300m² plant from Ascend Elements through bankruptcy proceedings in July. Court records show R3 was the successful bidder for…