Inappropriate recycling operations release considerable amounts of lead particles and fumes emitted into the air, deposited onto soil, water bodies and other surfaces, with both environment and human health negative impacts. Lead-acid batteries are the most widely and commonly used rechargeable batteries in the automotive and industrial sector.
The Regulation entered into force on 17 August 2023 and repeals the Batteries Directive (Directive 2006/66/EC). It continues to restrict the use of mercury and cadmium in batteries and introduces a restriction for lead in portable batteries. It also aims to: reduce environmental and social impacts throughout the entire battery life cycle.
The regulation established requirements for sustainability, safety and labelling of batteries as well as requirements for end-of-life management. It sets targets for collection, recovery and recycling, with specific goals for different types of batteries: Minimum Levels of Recycled Content Recycling efficiency Targets for batteries
The batteries contain large amounts of lead either as solid metal or lead-oxide powder. An average battery can contain up to 10 kilograms of lead.
The Commission proposes actions at the different stages of the battery life cycle. Enhancing collection rates of waste batteries is a critical step in closing the loop for the materials contained in batteries.
The regulation applies to all batteries, including all: batteries for light means of transport (LMT) such as electric bikes, e-mopeds and e-scooters. Targets It sets out rules covering the entire life cycle of batteries. These include: a requirement that LMT batteries will need to be replaceable by an independent professional.