EU Regulation 2023/1542: Digital Battery Passport, Decarbonisation, and Supply Chain Traceability
Overview
On July 12, 2023, the European Parliament and the Council adopted Regulation (EU) 2023/1542, a significant legislative step aimed at transforming the battery industry across the EU. This regulation is designed to promote sustainability, safety, and recycling standards for all types of batteries, including portable, electric vehicle (EV), industrial, and light means of transport (LMT) batteries. Key areas of focus include the implementation of a Digital Battery Passport, advancing decarbonisation efforts, and enhancing supply chain traceability.
Digital Battery Passport
The Digital Battery Passport is a groundbreaking requirement introduced by this regulation. It applies to EV batteries, LMT batteries, and rechargeable industrial batteries exceeding two kWh. This passport will include detailed information about the battery model, its specific details, and its usage. Additionally, all batteries must feature labels and QR codes that display their capacity, performance, durability, and chemical composition. These measures are expected to improve transparency and efficiency in battery management, ensuring that batteries are properly recycled and reused, thereby minimizing waste and environmental impact.
Decarbonisation
A core objective of Regulation 2023/1542 is to support the EU’s decarbonisation goals, aligned with the European Green Deal. This regulation aims to:
- Reduce the carbon footprint of batteries.
- Minimize the use of harmful substances in battery production.
- Encourage the use of recycled materials in new batteries.
- Promote the transition to a circular economy by ensuring that batteries are collected and recycled efficiently.
These initiatives are crucial for reducing the EU’s dependence on raw materials sourced from outside the Union and for fostering a more sustainable and competitive battery industry.
Supply Chain Traceability
Supply chain traceability is another critical aspect addressed by the regulation. It mandates stringent documentation and reporting of the entire battery lifecycle, from production to end-of-life management. This ensures compliance with environmental and safety standards and promotes responsible sourcing and manufacturing practices across the battery supply chain. By enforcing these traceability requirements, the regulation aims to:
- Prevent illegal and unethical practices in battery production.
- Ensure that batteries are produced and recycled in an environmentally friendly and socially responsible manner.
Implementation Timeline
The regulation came into force on August 17, 2023, with various provisions being implemented in phases up to 2027. Key implementation dates include:
- August 18, 2024: Compliance with due diligence policies and end-of-life management begins.
- August 18, 2025: Full compliance with end-of-life management rules is required.
- February 18, 2027: All portable batteries and LMT batteries must be designed to be removable and replaceable.
This phased approach gives companies time to adapt to the new requirements while ensuring a smooth transition towards more sustainable battery practices.
Conclusion
Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 marks a significant milestone in the EU’s efforts to enhance the sustainability of its battery industry. By introducing the digital battery passport, advancing decarbonisation efforts, and enforcing supply chain traceability, this regulation aims to create a more sustainable, transparent, and competitive battery market in the EU. This comprehensive approach not only supports the EU’s environmental goals but also sets a global benchmark for battery sustainability practices.
For more detailed information on the regulation and its implications, you can refer to the official document on the EUR-Lex website.