Battery and Accumulator Legislation
Battery and Accumulator Legislation
New EU Regulation (2023/1542)
On August 18, 2023, the new EU Regulation (2023/1542) on batteries and waste batteries came into force, becoming applicable from February 18, 2024.
The Regulation aims to improve the environmental sustainability of batteries and their waste, while ensuring an efficient and competitive internal market.
It applies to all categories of batteries, including:
- portable batteries,
- batteries for starting, lighting or ignition (vehicle batteries),
- batteries for light means of transport,
- batteries for electric vehicles,
- industrial batteries, regardless of shape, volume, weight, design, material composition, chemistry, use or purpose.
This Regulation represents the first European legislation addressing the entire lifecycle of batteries, from production to use and recycling. It is fully aligned with the objectives of the European Green Deal, focused on the EU’s energy transition, the development of a competitive industry in Member States, and energy independence from third countries.
European Directive 2006/66/EC
The European Directive 2006/66/EC regulates the management of batteries and accumulators within the EU to minimize environmental impact. It establishes requirements for collection, treatment, recycling, and disposal while banning hazardous substances such as cadmium and mercury. The directive encourages responsible recycling and sustainable management, involving producers, consumers, and local authorities.
European Directive 2013/56/EU
The European Directive 2013/56/EU updates the legislation on batteries and accumulators, enhancing the environmental management of waste. It introduces stricter restrictions on hazardous substances like cadmium and mercury, mandates separate collection, recycling obligations, and producer responsibility. The directive promotes sustainable practices to reduce the environmental impact of battery waste.
Legislative Decree 188/2008
Legislative Decree 188/2008 regulates the management of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) in Italy, establishing guidelines for collection, treatment, and disposal. It aims to prevent pollution, promote recycling, and safeguard the environment, aligning with European regulations on the disposal of technological waste.
Legislative Decree 21/2011
Legislative Decree 21/2011 implements the European Directive 2005/29/EC, addressing unfair commercial practices between businesses and consumers. It establishes rules to prevent misleading and aggressive practices, safeguarding consumer rights and promoting a fair, transparent market while providing penalties for violations.
Law 97/2013 – Article 21
Article 21 of Law 97/2013 sets provisions for the management of waste from batteries and accumulators, imposing obligations for collection, disposal, and recycling. Its objective is to reduce environmental impact, promote separate collection, and ensure the proper treatment of end-of-life batteries.
Legislative Decree 27/2016
Legislative Decree 27/2016 focuses on the environmental management of batteries and accumulators, outlining producer obligations for collection, recycling, and disposal. It emphasizes reducing environmental impact through extended producer responsibility and defines procedures for the recovery and recycling of used batteries.
Legislative Decree for the transposition of Directive 2018/849
The Legislative Decree implementing Directive 2018/849 governs the management of batteries and accumulators, establishing producer obligations for collection, recycling, and disposal. It aims to minimize the environmental impact of battery waste, fostering sustainability and efficiency in waste management, in line with European objectives.
