First Auto Manufacturer Joins the Fair Cobalt Alliance Collaboration
The Fair Cobalt Alliance (FCA), an initiative aimed at improving conditions in the small-scale cobalt mining industry in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has made significant strides in its mission. In March 2024, a new member joined the alliance, bolstering its steering committee and expertise in the implementation of voluntary standards aimed at improving mining practices within the FCA framework [1].
The FCA's work aligns with international calls for environmental and social safeguards in critical minerals mining. For instance, the G7 has been advocating for such safeguards to protect human rights and nature, emphasizing governance to prevent corruption and improve economic benefits for local communities [2].
The cobalt market's volatility, partly due to export restrictions, underscores the FCA's importance in stabilizing and improving conditions for small-scale miners in the DRC. The export ban has caused increased market tension, highlighting the importance of sustainable sourcing and improved conditions for miners on the ground to secure responsibly mined cobalt [3].
Notably, Sono Group N.V., an electric vehicle manufacturer whose mission is to pave the way for climate-friendly mobility, joined the FCA on 24th August 2020. Sono Group's solar technology, applicable to various vehicle architectures, aims to extend range, reduce fuel costs, and decrease CO2 emissions for vehicles. Through the support of the alliance, the company seeks to increase transparency in the cobalt supply chain for its Solar Electric Vehicle, Sion, in the medium term [4].
In the long term, Sono Group aims to integrate fair cobalt into its own supply chain. The company's disruptive solar technology is designed to be seamlessly integrated into various vehicle architectures, making every vehicle solar [5]. Sono Group's stock is traded on the OTCQB under the ticker symbol SEVCF, and more information about the company can be found on its website [6].
In addition to Sono Group, Glencore and Lifesaver are also joining the alliance. The alliance pursues three specific objectives: professionalizing small-scale mining management, creating safer and more environmentally responsible sites, and preventing child labor in the supply chain [7].
The FCA also aims to combat poverty among families dependent on cobalt mining by supporting sustainable livelihood projects [8]. For press inquiries, details can be found on the FCA's website, and investors can contact Sono Group via ir@our website [9].
These developments demonstrate the Alliance’s continuing progress in improving labor, environmental, and governance standards for cobalt mining in the DRC, contributing to a more sustainable and responsible mining industry.
References: [1] Fair Cobalt Alliance. (2024). Press Release: New Member Joins Fair Cobalt Alliance Steering Committee. [2] G7. (2023). Communiqué from the G7 Environment Ministers Meeting. [3] Reuters. (2025). DRC's Cobalt Export Ban Causes Market Tension. [4] Sono Group N.V. (2020). Press Release: Sono Group Joins Fair Cobalt Alliance. [5] Sono Group N.V. (2020). About Us. [6] Sono Group N.V. (n.d.). Website. [7] Fair Cobalt Alliance. (n.d.). About Us. [8] Fair Cobalt Alliance. (n.d.). Our Impact. [9] Sono Group N.V. (n.d.). Investor Relations.
The Fair Cobalt Alliance's expansion, such as the addition of companies like Sono Group with a mission in technology and automotive sectors, enhances the alliance's expertise in implementing sustainable practices across various industries, including finance and transportation. In the long run, the alliance seeks to address concerns in the cobalt supply chain, aiming for fairer and more responsible practices in the mining industry and beyond.
