EU to ban smartphones and laptops with non-removable batteries from 2027

In the European Council and Parliament accepted new regulation on batteries. It will regulate the full cycle of battery life from production to reuse and recycling. For the first time about these rules became known at the end of 2022.

The new rules will apply to all batteries, including those used in mobile equipment, electric vehicles and other vehicles, as well as industrial batteries.

In addition to new goals for recycling and reuse, the regulation calls on manufacturers of equipment to make batteries in gadgets removable with the possibility of quick replacement by the end consumer. This rule will not apply to passenger car batteries: they will have to be changed by independent specialists.

These changes will take effect from 2027. Manufacturers will also be required to label batteries: indicate their composition and recycling information, as well as add a QR code leading to a “battery passport”. To give manufacturers time to prepare, labeling will become mandatory from 2026 and QR codes from 2027.

What do you think of such changes? Share your opinion in the comments!