Electra noted that the year's efforts included the development of an ESG Framework outlining the company's priorities and commitments, including pledging to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

It also signed a benefits agreement with the Métis Nation of Ontario, and launched a whistleblower channel, allowing all of Electra's stakeholders to alert the company of potential misconduct in a confidential manner.

The company also adopted a zero-tolerance policy against human rights abuses in compliance with the Responsible Mining Initiative Standards.

Electra plans production of battery-grade materials at its refinery complex north of Toronto  - North America's only cobalt sulfate refinery.

"2022 was marked by considerable progress on a number of ESG fronts," said Trent Mell, Electra's chief executive. "Most notably, we launched our ESG policies and framework, appointed Renata Cardoso, an experienced sustainability expert, as VP of Sustainability and Low Carbon, , became members of the Responsible Minerals Initiative, and signed a benefits agreement with the Métis Nation of Ontario. Our commitment to annual sustainability reporting will hold Electra accountable for transparent disclosure of the Company's contribution to sustainable development.

"We will build on these milestones as we complete the commissioning of our cobalt sulfate refinery and our black mass recycling trial program over the coming months and begin commercial production in 2023. Key to our success will be to leverage our low-carbon hydrometallurgical production facilities and establish Electra as an ESG leader within the electric vehicle battery supply chain in North America."