Regulatory Framework and Market Governance
The document outlines the European Union’s comprehensive regulatory framework for batteries, aiming to harmonise requirements across Member States and ensure the proper functioning of the internal market. It establishes obligations for economic operators concerning sustainability, safety, labelling, and information transparency for batteries placed on the market.
A central element of the regulation is the introduction of extended producer responsibility, requiring producers to manage the lifecycle of batteries, including registration, reporting, and waste management. Authorities are tasked with maintaining producer registers, verifying compliance, and ensuring that accurate and updated information is provided throughout the battery lifecycle.
Environmental Sustainability and Circular Economy Objectives
The regulation strongly promotes environmental sustainability by introducing measures to reduce the carbon footprint of batteries and enhance resource efficiency. It requires lifecycle-based carbon footprint calculations and encourages the adoption of best available technologies aligned with international standards.
Furthermore, the framework supports the transition to a circular economy by setting targets for recycling efficiency and the recovery of critical raw materials such as cobalt, lithium, nickel, and lead. It also introduces mechanisms such as the digital battery passport, which ensures traceability, transparency, and informed decision-making across the battery value chain.
Overall, the regulation aims to minimise environmental and health impacts, promote innovation, and strengthen the EU’s strategic autonomy in battery production and resource management while ensuring high standards of safety and sustainability.