Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning batteries and waste batteries: A landmark step towards a sustainable future
Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning batteries and waste batteries, adopted on 12 July 2023, represents a fundamental step by the European Union towards a more sustainable and circular economy. This new regulation, which replaces the previous 2006 directive, focuses on the entire life cycle of batteries – from raw material extraction through production and use to recycling and recovery.
Its main objective is to minimise the environmental impact of batteries, ensure their safety, and support the EU’s strategic autonomy in the field of critical raw materials.
Who does the regulation affect?
The regulation applies to all types of batteries placed on the EU market, regardless of whether they were manufactured in the EU or imported. These include:
- Portable batteries (e.g. in smartphones, laptops)
- Electric vehicle (EV) batteries
- Industrial batteries
- Light means of transport (LMT) batteries, such as e-bikes or e-scooters
- Starting, lighting, and ignition (SLI) batteries (primarily in vehicles)
Key areas and changes introduced by the regulation:
1. Sustainability and safety:
- Restrictions on hazardous substances: Stricter limits on the content of harmful substances (mercury, cadmium, lead).
- Carbon footprint: For selected batteries (EV, rechargeable industrial, LMT), it will be mandatory to declare the carbon footprint from 18 February 2025. CO₂ limits will also be introduced later.
- Recycled content: From 2031, mandatory minimum shares of recycled raw materials (cobalt, lithium, nickel, lead) in new batteries will be required.
- Performance and durability: Establishment of requirements for the performance and durability of batteries.
2. Labelling and information (transparency):
- QR codes and “battery passport”: From 18 February 2027, certain types of batteries (EV, LMT, industrial) must have a digital passport with information on origin, composition, carbon footprint, and recycling options.
- Labels: From 2026, mandatory labelling of battery capacity, lifespan, and recyclability. Also, a separate collection symbol.
3. Removability and replaceability of batteries:
- For consumer products: From 18 February 2027, portable batteries must be easily removable and replaceable by the end-user.
- For LMT, EV, and industrial use: Batteries must be easily replaceable by qualified professionals.
4. Collection and recycling of waste batteries:
- Collection targets:
- Portable batteries: 63% by the end of 2027, 73% by the end of 2030.
- LMT batteries: 51% by the end of 2028, 61% by the end of 2031.
- Material recovery targets (from 2027):
- 90% for cobalt, copper, nickel, and lead
- 50% for lithium
5. Supply chain due diligence:
From 18 August 2025, due diligence obligations are introduced for companies with an annual turnover exceeding EUR 40 million. These companies must identify and manage social and environmental risks throughout the entire supply chain, including ethical sourcing of raw materials.
Timeline:
The regulation comes into force gradually – some provisions have applied since February 2024, while others will be introduced in 2025, 2027, and 2030. The full repeal of Directive 2006/66/EC will occur on 18 August 2025.
Conclusion:
The new battery regulation represents a comprehensive legal framework that fundamentally transforms the European battery industry. Its aim is not only to reduce the environmental burden but also to promote innovation, the competitiveness of European industry, and contribute to climate neutrality in line with the goals of the European Green Deal.
For manufacturers, importers, distributors, and recycling companies, this means new obligations – but also new opportunities for more sustainable and efficient battery management throughout the EU.
In the Czech Republic and Slovakia, national legislation and processes are currently being adjusted for full alignment with the new requirements.
