Sustainable batteries: New EU regulations for manufacturers come into force!

Sustainable batteries: New EU regulations for manufacturers come into force!

On March 21, 2025, an exciting program of events and reforms will be announced at the Technical University of Braunschweig. The university is preparing for CampusXperience, which will take place from June 20th to 22nd under the motto "Explore. Celebrate. Play." will take place. This event will feature a wide range of activities including science slam, expeditions, a music festival and a sports festival. This makes Braunschweig a platform for innovative ideas and creative development.

Another important date for the university is the last meeting of the current Senate, which took place on March 19th. The new composition of the Senate will come into force on April 2, 2025. This change could provide new impetus for the university's academic development and strategy.

Sustainable batteries and new regulations

A major issue currently affecting the university is the introduction of stricter regulations for batteries. The EU Battery Regulation (EU-BattVO), which came into force on February 18, 2024, replaces the previous EU Battery Directive. The aim of this new regulation is to promote the sustainable use of batteries along the entire value chain. Emotional discussions about sustainability were triggered by the introduction of new requirements for sustainability and safety regulations. Loud Forum Publisher Manufacturers must now disclose their CO₂ footprint and maintain minimum proportions of recycled materials in batteries.

The new regulations also include substance restrictions for hazardous materials such as mercury, cadmium and lead. From August 18, 2031, manufacturers must ensure specific percentages when using raw materials such as cobalt, lead, lithium and nickel in their products. This also applies to consumers, who can benefit from expanded collection and return systems.

In the European context, it can be seen that in 2019, almost 47 percent of the portable batteries sold in the EU were collected for recycling. In order to further improve recycling, the EU has set increased collection targets. From 2024, 63 percent of device batteries will be collected by 2027 and 73 percent by 2030. These regulations are part of a broader initiative to reduce waste and pollutants and promote sustainable production methods and have been implemented European Parliament supports.

Variety of events at TU Braunschweig

The university will also be at the Hannover Messe from March 31 to April 4 to showcase its research focus in areas such as sustainable aviation and quantum technology. This emphasizes the university's role as an innovative actor in science and business.

In addition, an online lecture series will take place from March 28th in which Dr.-Ing. Weijun Lu will talk about the transformation of China's automotive industry and vehicle innovations. A discussion about the challenges of autonomous vehicles is also planned for April 3 at 5:30 p.m.

The cultural side of the university is also not neglected. Finally, there is a Science and Art Lab that will present an exhibition by Hito Steyerl on March 27th. On April 1st, there will also be a Digital Long COVID Dialogue Forum that will address the stresses in the world of work.

Overall, the Technical University of Braunschweig shows a variety of activities and adjustments, both in relation to current challenges and with regard to future-oriented research and teaching.