Recycling lithium-ion batteries cost effectively and safely still comes with many challenges. The two most common recycling methods, Pyrometallurgical and Hydrometallurgical processes are not very energy efficient and may cause environmental contamination if not managed properly. To overcome these challenges, it is essential to consider what goes into the lithium ion batteries and how the batteries are being produced.  Is there anything we can do to produce lithium ion batteries that eliminates the need for hydro- or pyrometallurgical processes for battery recycling and achieves a true sustainable closed loop direct recycling?