European Commission: EU battery recycling targets remain fit for purpose

Findings

The European Commission’s assessment concludes that the current recycling efficiency and material recovery targets set in the Batteries Regulation remain appropriate. The evaluation found no grounds to revise the targets while recommending continued monitoring of scientific and market developments. The assessment was supported by a Joint Research Centre technical assessment.

Targets and deadlines

The targets are set in Parts B and C of Annex XII to Regulation (EU) 2023/1542. By 31 December 2025 recycling efficiency must reach at least 75% for lead‑acid, 65% for lithium‑based, 80% for nickel‑cadmium and 50% for other batteries. By 31 December 2030 targets are 80% for lead‑acid and 70% for lithium‑based batteries. Material recovery targets require 90% recovery of cobalt, copper, lead and nickel and 50% lithium by 31 December 2027, rising to 95% for cobalt, copper, lead and nickel and 80% for lithium by 31 December 2031.

Rationale and implications

The Commission said the targets balance ambition with feasibility, supporting a circular economy, encouraging innovation and investment in recycling without overburdening a developing industry. Maintaining the targets is intended to strengthen resilience in EU raw material supply chains for sustainable mobility and climate neutrality and to support the RESourceEU aim of reducing dependence on a single country of origin by 30–50% by 2029 for battery‑related raw material value chains.

Next steps

Under the Batteries Regulation the Commission must reassess the targets at least every five years; the next assessment is due by 18 August 2031 at the latest.