10/07/2023 (Agence Europe) – The EU regulation on batteries and battery waste, the first emblematic circular economy legislation proposed for 2020 (see EUROPE 12620/13), has been adopted. On Monday 10 July, the Council of the European Union formally adopted this legislation, which aims to improve the sustainability of all batteries sold in the EU throughout their life cycle and to develop a European battery industry (see EUROPE 13081/5). Requirements on carbon footprint, recycled content, performance and sustainability will be phased in from 2024. A more comprehensive regulatory framework on extended producer responsibility will start to apply in mid-2025, with higher collection targets introduced over time. The regulation will be published in the Official Journal of the EU and will come into force 20 days later. To consult it: https://aeur.eu/f/7zv (AN)