The Draft EU 2030 Battery Regulation: Key Impacts on Recycling and Sustainability
The European Union's ambitious goals for sustainability are clearly reflected in the new Draft EU 2030 Battery Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2023/1542).
This regulation is a cornerstone of the European Green Deal, designed to create a circular economy for batteries and improve the EU’s strategic autonomy and competitiveness.
By setting firm targets for recycling, carbon footprint reduction and recycled content, the regulation drives the industry towards greater sustainability while tackling the environmental impact of battery production and disposal.
Recycled Content Requirements
The regulation mandates minimum recycled content in new batteries, focusing on critical metals like cobalt, lithium and nickel:
• By 2030: Batteries must contain at least 12% cobalt, 4% lithium and 4% nickel from recycled sources.
• By 2036: These thresholds rise to 26% cobalt, 12% lithium and 15% nickel.
This initiative to incorporate recycled materials helps reduce the need for raw material extraction, minimising environmental damage and improving resource efficiency.
Recycling Mandates
The regulation applies to all battery types—portable, EV, industrial and light transport batteries (e-bikes, scooters) and establishes clear recycling targets to ensure valuable materials are recovered:
• By 2026: 50% of a battery’s weight must be recycled, increasing to 65% by 2031.
• Lithium Recovery: 50% by 2027, rising to 70% by 2030.
• Portable Batteries: Collection rates set at 45% by 2023, 65% by 2025 and 70% by 2030. Carbon Footprint ReportingTo support the EU’s broader climate goals, the regulation mandates carbon footprint reporting for electric vehicle (EV) and industrial batteries.
This requirement is part of the EU’s strategy to promote transparency and reduce emissions across the supply chain, enabling businesses and consumers make informed, environmentally conscious decisions.
Due Diligence and Responsible Sourcing
Strict due diligence requirements mean companies must assess and mitigate social and environmental risks when sourcing raw materials like lithium and cobalt. This helps ensure ethical, sustainable supply chains and reduces the environmental impact of mining.
Conclusion
The Draft EU 2030 Regulation sets a distinct pathway for batteries to support the EU’s green energy transition. Companies like Recyclus Group will play a crucial role in meeting these recycling and sustainability goals.
By prioritising recycling, carbon footprint transparency and responsible sourcing, the battery industry is advancing toward a more sustainable future for energy storage in Europe.