Circular economy: new developments in calculating the efficiency of battery recycling

On 18 February 2024, EU Regulation 2023/1452 came into force, updating the targets for the collection of waste batteries and accumulators, as well as the recovery levels and quantities of recycled materials and minerals that these products must contain.

The aim of this regulation is to promote the circularity of batteries in the European Union, greatly increasing the amount of minerals that are recovered and re-enter the production cycle. Some of these minerals are lithium, cobalt and nickel, which are found in all types of batteries, whether industrial or, for example, in electric or hybrid cars. From 2027 onwards, there are different mineral recovery targets that will be extended until 2031, in some cases reaching more than 90% of the minerals used.

On 24 July, the new rules, Delegated Regulation (EU) 2025/606, will come into force to accurately measure the efficiency of battery recycling. These rules will have to be applied by all agents involved in the production, management or recovery of batteries within the European Union. This regulation aims to establish common, clear and consistent rules to prevent unfair competition and boost the secondary market for batteries.

Key targets:

• Waste collection for battery producers: 63% by the end of 2027, 73% by the end of 2031.
• Waste collection from light transport: 51% by the end of 2028, 61% by the end of 2031.
• Lithium recovery: 50% by the end of 2027, 80% by the end of 2031.
• Cobalt, copper, lead and nickel recovery: 90% by the end of 2027 and 95% by the end of 2031.
• Recycling efficiency target: 80% for lithium batteries by the end of 2025.

The methods for calculating these objectives and targets, among others determined by the regulation, are detailed in the regulations that will come into force on 24 July.

How can Grup Carles help you?

At Grup Carles, we have experts in environmental regulations who can advise you on the application of the new battery regulations in your business so that your company is up to date with the responsibilities arising from this new regulation.

Would you like to know more?

For more details on battery recycling efficiency, please see the following article: New rules to boost recycling efficiency from waste batteries - European Commission