EU Council adopts new regulations on batteries and waste batteries

2023-07-12 2023-07-12 Economic Team, Taipei Representative Office in Belgium

Source: Bureau of International Trade, Ministry of Economic Affairs

Reference information: European Council press release

On July 10, 2023, the Council of the European Union adopted the first landmark circular economy legislation, originally proposed by the European Commission in 2020, to strengthen sustainability rules for batteries and waste batteries. This regulation will govern the entire lifecycle of batteries, from production to reuse and recycling, ensuring their safety, sustainability, and competitiveness, while also fostering the development of the European battery industry. The new regulations will replace the existing 2006 Battery Directive and strengthen existing legislation, particularly regarding waste management. The new regulations will apply to all batteries, including discarded portable batteries, electric vehicle batteries, industrial batteries, SLI batteries primarily used in vehicles and machinery, and lightweight vehicle batteries (such as electric bicycles and scooters).

Requirements regarding carbon footprint, recycled content and percentages, and sustainability will be implemented in phases starting in 2024. A more comprehensive regulatory framework for producer responsibility will be applicable by mid-2025, with progressively higher recycling targets being introduced over time. The regulation will be published in the Official Journal of the European Union and will enter into force 20 days later.

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