Circular economy

The Enterprise Europe Network informs:
09/08/2023

Batteries are to be more durable and easier to replace in the EU in the future. This is ensured by the new EU regulations, which are now coming into force. They ensure that batteries contain only a minimum of harmful substances, have a low carbon footprint, require fewer raw materials and are collected, reused and recycled in Europe. From 2025, targets for recycling efficiency, material recovery and recycled content will be progressively introduced. All collected spent batteries must be recycled to achieve high levels of recovery. This is especially true for critical raw materials such as cobalt, lithium and nickel.

The new battery regulation is the first European legislation to take a full life-cycle approach, with procurement, manufacturing, use and recycling all regulated in a single law.

Longer product life, less waste

From 2027, consumers will be able to remove and replace the portable batteries in their electronic products at any point in the life cycle. This will extend the life of these products before they are disposed of, encourage reuse and help reduce waste. To help consumers purchase batteries, key data will be provided on a label. A QR code provides access to a digital passport with detailed information about each battery that will help achieve the circular economy for batteries along the value chain.

For more information on the Circular Economy Act "More Sustainable, Recyclable and Safe Batteries," see . https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/de/activities/digital-programme https://germany.representation.ec.europa.eu/news/eu-uk-politische-einigung-uber-beteiligung-horizont-europa-und-copernicus-2023-09-07_de

Source: European Commission

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