EU Mandates Greater Recyclability in Batteries

"The European Union promotes the improvement of battery recyclability. Manufacturers assume responsibility for the recycling of used batteries and set recycling targets. By the end of 2027, 63% of used portable batteries are required to be collected, and this will increase to 73% by the end of 2030. In addition, waste from light vehicles Batteries set dedicated collection targets, calling for 51% by the end of 2028 and 61% by the end of 2031.

The new regulations also set minimum recycled content levels for new industrial batteries, SLI and electric vehicle batteries. By the end of 2025, the recycling efficiency target for nickel-cadmium is 80%, and the recycling efficiency target for other batteries is 50%.

The rules have brought huge changes to the way battery materials are handled in the EU and its main economy and battery hub Germany.

Nicolas Brahami, a battery expert at the German Trade and Investment Agency (GTAI), said that the new EU battery regulations cover the entire battery life cycle, ensuring that key raw materials are maximized for reuse.

This means that batteries sold in the EU must adhere to sustainable production practices and responsible recycling processes, supporting Europe's transition to low-emission transport modes.

Brahami added: "This marks an important step for batteries to become the first truly closed-loop industry. The regulation will solidify the EU, and Germany in particular, as a leading location for investment across the battery materials value chain. At GTAI we see Leading industry players, especially in the recycling sector, are showing strong interest in investing in new capacity in Germany