The European Commission has introduced new rules for sweeping to change the way the continent disposes batteries.
The regulations set to take effect on July 24, 2025 are designed to boost material recovery, reduce waste, and protect access to critical raw materials such as lithium, cobalt and nickel.
As Europe accelerates green transitions, these new rules show key pivots. Batteries are no longer considered disposable power sources, and are considered valuable resource hubs that can promote a circular, resilient, competitive economy.
Climate and circular goals key steps
Batteries are at the heart of European green transitions, supporting electric vehicle power, renewable energy storage, and EU climate neutrality by 2050.
However, increasing reliance on batteries underscores the urgent need to ensure access to critical and strategic raw materials.
To tackle this challenge, the Commission’s new rules will allow many of these valuable materials to be efficiently restored and reused, reducing reliance on third countries’ imports, and supporting the EU’s strategic autonomy goals.
Clearer guidelines for leveling the arena
The new framework establishes a harmonized methodology for calculating both recycling efficiency and material recovery rates.
It applies to all major battery types such as lead acid, nickel cadmium, lithium-based, and sets clear expectations for recyclers across the EU.
By implementing consistent calculation methods and document formats, the regulations aim to prevent unfair competition in the growing market for secondary raw materials, where data inconsistencies have previously hindered progress.
Ambitious Battery Recycling and Recovery Goals
As outlined in Appendix XII of Battery Regulation, recyclers must meet specific targets by December 31, 2025 for recycling efficiency.
75% of lead acid batteries 65% of lithium-based batteries 80% of nickel cadmium batteries 50% of other batteries
These will rise further by 2030, with lithium-based battery efficiency targets increasing to 70% and lead acid increasing to 80%.
Similarly ambitious material recovery goals are:
By 2027, 90% of cobalt, copper, lead and nickel. By 2031, 50% of lithium: 95% of cobalt, copper, lead and nickel. 80% of lithium
These targets reflect the EU’s commitment to closing the loop of battery material and reducing waste through efficient reuse.
Protect your supply chain through better battery recycling
Beyond environmental benefits, improving material recovery capabilities is a strategic imperative.
As global raw materials competition grows, the ability to recycle and retain valuable European resources domestically to protect industry resilience and maintain supply chain security will become important.
Improved battery recycling infrastructure not only helps reduce reliance on unstable international markets, but also helps to promote innovation and job creation in the green tech sector.
Developed with opinions from the Joint Research Centre and key stakeholders, this delegated act represents a major step in European battery policy.
As implementation approaches, the EU will be at the forefront of sustainable battery use, transforming waste into a recovery of value and materials, and becoming the cornerstone of the circular economy.
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