Type of Change
Statutory.
EU regulation for batteries directly applies in Northern Ireland as it replaces the EU Batteries Directive (2006/66/EC), which is listed in Annex 2 of the Windsor Framework.
Affected Stakeholders
- Citizens
- Waste Management Companies
- Local Councils
- Retailers
- Manufacturers
- Distributors
Changes
- The new Batteries Regulation will ensure that, in the future, batteries have a low carbon footprint, use minimal harmful substances. And need less raw materials. It will also ensure that they are collected, reused and recycled to a high degree in Europe.
- Targets for recycling efficiency, material recovery and recycled content will be gradually introduced from 2025 onwards.
- 2027- consumers will be able to remove and replace the portable batteries in their electronic products at any time of the life cycle.
Status
The EU Batteries Regulation 2023/1542 has been in force since 18 February 2024. Northern Ireland will implement this EU regulation as it is within the Scope of the Windsor Framework. DAERA is currently assessing the necessary requirements and supporting implementing legislation for Northern Ireland and is working closely with Defra. DAERA will engage with stakeholders through this process.
Expected Timeline
Not known at present – see line above for details.