The European Parliament has recently approved new regulations to significantly improve the design, production, and waste management of batteries sold within the European Union (EU).
EU Regulations to Improve Battery Lifecycle and Performance
The legislation covers all types of batteries and aims to address the increasing demand for batteries driven by the projected 30 million electric vehicles (EVs) on EU roads by 2030.
With an overwhelming majority, MEPs voted in favor of the agreement negotiated with the Council, which considers technological advancements and future challenges in the sector.
Reuters reports that one of the key measures introduced by the regulations is the requirement for a carbon footprint statement and label for EV batteries, light transport vehicle (LMT) batteries, and industrial rechargeable batteries with a capacity exceeding 2 kWh.
This labeling will enable consumers to make more informed decisions based on the environmental impact of the batteries they choose.
Promoting Circular Economy, Responsible Practices
The new regulations prioritize the principles of the circular economy by setting ambitious targets for waste collection and materials recovery from battery waste.
To encourage battery recycling, EU countries will be required to achieve progressively higher collection rates. The targets include reaching a 45% collection rate for portable batteries by 2023, 63% by 2027, and 73% by 2030.
Similarly, for LMT batteries, the targets are set at 51% by 2028 and 61% by 2031.
In addition to collection targets, the regulations establish minimum levels of materials recovery. By 2027, a minimum of 50% of lithium and 90% of cobalt, copper, lead, and nickel must be recovered from battery waste.
These recovery rates will increase to 80% for lithium and 95% for cobalt, copper, lead, and nickel by 2031. Furthermore, the regulations mandate minimum levels of recycled content in new batteries derived from manufacturing and consumer waste, promoting using recycled materials in battery production.
The due diligence requirements placed on economic operators, excluding small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), ensure responsible practices throughout the battery lifecycle.
These measures aim to strengthen the EU's recycling industry, particularly for lithium, and create a competitive industrial sector, which is vital for Europe's energy transition and strategic autonomy.
Sustainable Growth, Global Influence
EU parliament member Achille Variati emphasized the significance of these regulations as a groundbreaking step towards achieving a circular economy across the entire lifecycle of batteries.
Variati believes that the measures adopted by the EU could serve as a benchmark for the global battery market. By prioritizing environmental benefits, battery performance, and user safety, the regulations meet citizens' expectations for a sustainable future and foster economic growth.
The approval of these regulations by the European Parliament aligns with the European Green Deal, the Circular Economy Action Plan, and the New Industrial Strategy.
The Council will now need to formally endorse the regulations before they are published in the Official Journal of the EU and come into effect.
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