On June 15th, Gizcoupon reported that the EU had passed new regulations regarding the design, production, and waste management of all types of batteries sold in the European Union. These regulations were approved with an overwhelming majority of 587 votes in favor, 9 votes against, and 20 abstentions. Moreover, the EU states that the new regulations take into account the technological developments and future challenges in the battery industry, covering the entire lifecycle from design to disposal.
One of the most notable requirements in this regulation pertains to electronic products. It stipulates that all batteries in household appliances and consumer electronics should be easily “detachable and replaceable” for consumers. The term “easily” implies that users can replace the batteries without special tools.
Since the advent of the smartphone era, almost all manufacturers have abandoned the removable back cover design due to reasons such as slimness, safety, and waterproofing. The new regulation passed by the European Union means that unless manufacturers have alternative plans in place, the integrated design of current mainstream smartphones will need significant modifications.
These new EU regulations will come into effect in early 2027. If device manufacturers require more time for adjustments, the EU may extend the deadline. However, since this law only applies to Europe, there are doubts about whether manufacturers will design separate phone styles exclusively for European users.
Gizcoupon attaches the core requirements of the new EU regulations:
- Electric vehicle batteries, light mobility vehicle batteries (LMT), and rechargeable industrial batteries with a capacity exceeding 2kWh must have carbon footprint declarations and labels.
- Electric vehicle batteries, light mobility vehicle batteries, and rechargeable industrial batteries with a capacity exceeding 2kWh must have digital battery passports.
- Household appliances and consumer electronics must use portable batteries that consumers can easily detach and replace on their own.
- Stricter waste collection targets: For portable batteries, the recycling rate should reach 45% by 2023, 63% by 2027, and 73% by 2030. Moreover, the recycling rate for LMT batteries should be 51% by 2028 and 61% by 2031.
- Minimum levels of material recovery from waste batteries: By 2027, lithium should be recovered at a rate of 50%, increasing to 80% by 2031. Additionally, cobalt, copper, lead, and nickel should reach a recovery rate of 90% by 2027 and 95% by 2031.
- Minimum levels of recycled content in new battery manufacturing: Eight years after the regulation takes effect, cobalt should account for 16%, lead 85%, lithium 6%, and nickel 6%. Furthermore, thirteen years after the regulation takes effect, cobalt should reach 26%, lead 85%, lithium 12%, and nickel 15%.