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Evaluation of the batteries Directive

The European Commission has finalized its review of the Batteries Directive, an evaluation that was initiated in 2016.

This evaluation is a follow-up to the general ‘fitness-check’ that was performed in 2014 for multiple waste stream Directives. Based on the findings in this fitness-check the European Commission decided to perform a more comprehensive evaluation, with more input from stakeholders.

Conclusions of this evaluation

There are several key conclusions of this evaluation that are worth mentioning:

  • The labelling of batteries has improved since the introduction of the directive, but there is room for improvement. The labelling obligation does not apply equally to all types of batteries, making it challenging for producers to properly comply.
  • The current system for battery collection laid down in the directive is not suitable for dealing with industrial batteries. There are no collection targets laid down for these batteries, nor for the method of setting up national compliance schemes.
  • The Directive is not properly suited to deal with quick changes in technology, like the introduction of more lithium-based batteries and the possibilities to give advanced batteries a second life.

When is the amendment of the Batteries Directive to be expected?

It is expected that these findings will be input for an amendment of the Batteries Directive. This amended version of the Directive will likely include clear collection targets for industrial batteries, as these batteries become more prominent in the EU. However, this amendment is not expected to arrive before 2020. Do you want to receive an update when that time arrives? Sign up to the Pincvision newsletter and be sure that you're updated immediately!

Source: Europa.eu

21 May 2019 at 4:44 pm