The Electric Future of California: Navigating Rising Gas Prices and Global Sustainability

EV sustainable for real?

California has long been a trailblazer in environmental policy, leading the charge toward a cleaner, more sustainable future. Central to this vision is the state's ambitious plan to phase out gasoline-powered vehicles by 2035, transitioning to a fully electric vehicle (EV) fleet. This shift is not only a response to the escalating climate crisis but also a strategic move to address the state's soaring gas prices. However, as California accelerates its EV adoption, it's crucial to examine the broader implications of this transition, particularly concerning the environmental and ethical challenges associated with sourcing critical minerals for EV batteries from regions like Africa.

The Drive Toward Electric Vehicles

California's commitment to electrifying its transportation sector is evident in its policies and initiatives. The state's Advanced Clean Cars II regulations mandate that 35% of new passenger cars, trucks, and SUVs sold in California be zero-emission vehicles by 2026, ramping up to 68% by 2030 and reaching 100% by 2035 . These targets are part of a broader strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and combat climate change.

To support this transition, California has invested heavily in EV infrastructure. As of 2023, the state had over 80,000 public charging stations, with plans to expand this network significantly in the coming years. Additionally, incentives such as rebates and tax credits have been introduced to make EVs more accessible to consumers.

Rising Gas Prices: A Catalyst for Change

Economic factors, particularly rising gasoline prices, are accelerating California's shift toward electric vehicles. A recent analysis by USC Professor Michael Mische projects that gas prices could surge 75% by the end of 2026, reaching as high as $8.43 per gallon . This increase is attributed to several factors:

• Refinery Closures: The impending shutdown of major refineries, such as Phillips 66 and Valero, could reduce the state's refining capacity by up to 21%, leading to higher fuel prices.

• Environmental Regulations: California's stringent environmental policies, while beneficial for the climate, can increase production costs, which are passed on to consumers.

• Global Market Dynamics: Fluctuations in global oil prices and supply chain disruptions can also contribute to higher gasoline prices.

These rising costs make EVs an attractive alternative for consumers seeking to reduce their fuel expenses.

Global Implications: Resource Extraction in Africa

The demand for electric vehicles has led to an increased need for minerals such as lithium, cobalt, and nickel, which are essential for EV batteries. A significant portion of these minerals is sourced from countries in Africa, including the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which produced 74% of the world's cobalt in 2022 .

However, the extraction of these minerals often involves:

• Environmental Degradation: Mining operations can lead to deforestation, water pollution, and loss of biodiversity. For instance, lithium mining in Tibet has been linked to toxic chemical leaks that have devastated local ecosystems .

• Human Rights Violations: Reports of child labor, unsafe working conditions, and displacement of communities are prevalent in some mining regions. The rush for lithium in Africa risks fueling corruption and a range of other environmental, social, and governance issues for communities .

• Political Instability: Control over mineral resources can exacerbate conflicts and contribute to political instability in resource-rich countries.

While California's transition to EVs aims to reduce its carbon footprint, the environmental and social costs associated with resource extraction in Africa raise questions about the global equity of this transition.

Balancing Sustainability with Social Responsibility

As California moves toward an electric future, it must consider the broader implications of its policies. The state has the opportunity to lead not only in environmental sustainability but also in promoting ethical practices in global supply chains. This can be achieved by:

• Supporting Ethical Mining Practices: Encouraging transparency and accountability in the sourcing of minerals, ensuring that mining operations adhere to environmental and human rights standards.

• Investing in Recycling Technologies: Developing and implementing technologies to recycle EV batteries, reducing the need for new mineral extraction.

• Promoting Global Cooperation: Collaborating with other nations to establish international standards for sustainable and ethical mining practices.

By addressing these issues, California can ensure that its transition to electric vehicles contributes to global sustainability and social equity.

Political Challenges and Legal Battles

California's aggressive push toward electrification has not been without opposition. In May 2025, the GOP-controlled U.S. Senate voted to end California's authority to set its own vehicle emissions standards, effectively overturning the state's law banning new gasoline-powered car sales by 2035 . This move nullifies the EPA waiver granted under the 1970 Clean Air Act, which allowed California to enforce stricter emissions rules than the federal government.

In response, California officials, including Attorney General Rob Bonta and Governor Gavin Newsom, have vowed legal action, citing the impact on climate and pollution efforts . The legal battle could significantly impact the state's decarbonization efforts and its leadership in electric vehicle adoption.

Conclusion

California's shift toward electric vehicles is a positive step in combating climate change and reducing dependence on fossil fuels. However, it is essential to recognize that the benefits of this transition should not come at the expense of environmental and social justice in other parts of the world. By adopting ethical practices and promoting global cooperation, California can lead the way in creating a truly sustainable and equitable future.