EU sustainable batteries regulation now in effect

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【Summary】The new EU Batteries Regulation, replacing the existing Batteries Directive, aims to promote sustainability and circularity in batteries. It applies to all categories of batteries, including those used in electric vehicles. The regulation sets requirements for economic operators, including due diligence and risk management obligations. Producers will have extended producer responsibility and be responsible for financing the collection, treatment, and recycling of batteries.

FutureCar Staff Aug 15, 2023 5:01 PM PT

EU sustainable batteries regulation now in effect

The new EU Batteries Regulation has been published in the Official Journal of the EU, and it will come into force later this month. The Regulation aims to promote the sustainability of batteries and adds to the existing legislation on supply chain compliance. It applies to all types of batteries, including those used in electric vehicles and industrial applications.

The Regulation has three main priorities: strengthening the internal market, promoting a circular economy, and reducing the environmental and societal impact of batteries. It sets standardized rules for battery products, processes, waste batteries, and recyclates.

The Regulation applies to economic operators who place batteries on the market or put them into service in the EU, including batteries imported from non-EU countries. Economic operators include manufacturers, importers, distributors, and other relevant parties. The Regulation sets out specific obligations for manufacturers, importers, and distributors, including extended producer responsibility.

In line with the European Green Deal, the Regulation aims to boost circularity in batteries throughout their lifecycle. It sets targets for the collection of waste batteries and the recovery of critical materials like lithium. It also introduces mandatory minimum levels of recycled content for certain types of batteries.

The Regulation introduces harmonized rules on safety, sustainability, and labeling requirements. It restricts the use of hazardous substances and requires the disclosure of the carbon footprint of batteries. Labels will provide information on components, lifetime, and recycled content. A QR code linking to battery composition information will also be required.

Supply chain due diligence requirements will apply to economic operators placing batteries on the market. These requirements include verifying the source of raw materials and publishing due diligence policies based on international standards. Non-compliance can result in restrictions or prohibitions on the market availability of batteries.

The Regulation will have significant implications for companies in various sectors, including aerospace, automotive, electronics, and energy storage. It will enter into force on 18 February 2024, with certain obligations taking effect on 18 August 2024. Secondary legislative files will provide further clarification and rules on various topics.