Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) dominate energy storage, but rising lithium demand and environmental concerns drive research into sodium-ion batteries (SIBs). Germany aims to advance eco-friendly SIB technology, focusing on cost-effective materials. Asphaltenes, abundant oil sands by-products in Canada, offer a low-cost alternative but are largely wasted. The OILSANDSBATT project unites German and Canadian experts to upcycle asphaltenes into SIB anodes. Key goals include developing carbon fiber anodes, optimizing storage mechanisms, and assessing CO₂ emissions through life-cycle analysis (LCA) for sustainable battery advancements.