EU Prepares Restrictions on Hazardous Substances in Batteries

On August 17, 2023, EU Regulation 2023/1542 (EU Battery Regulation) went into effect. With a few exceptions, it will apply as of February 18, 2024. With the new regulation for batteries and waste batteries, the EU is creating a harmonized legal framework for the EU internal market that regulates all aspects related to the life cycle of batteries.

One result of the regulation is the introduction of labeling and information requirements for battery components. The EU also plans to restrict hazardous substances in batteries.

The EU Commission is currently collaborating with the ECHA to identify all substances of concern that are present in batteries or that play a role in their manufacture. The report is expected to be available by the end of 2027 and will form the basis for future restriction measures.

The procedure surrounding the restriction proposals is to run exactly as it does for substance restrictions under REACH – with the support of the ECHA. Its Risk Assessment Committee (RAC) and Socio-Economic Analysis Committee (SEAC) will evaluate the proposals, and stakeholder consultations will occur. Based on the results, the EU Commission will ultimately decide on a restriction.

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