The European Union adopted the “Batteries Directive” (91/157/EEC) in March 1991. This introduced restrictions on the
use of mercury in most batteries and encouraged collection and recycling.
However the objectives of this Directive have not been achieved as most portable batteries are still being sent to landfi ll. As a result, the EU has introduced, and adopted, a new batteries directive that will come into force on 26 September 2008.
According to the new directive, all battery producers will be obliged to register in each EU State where they place batteries on the market (with the possible exception of distance sellers in some States).
The approaches to compliance within each EU State are still under discussion but it is possible that portable batteries and industrial and automotive batteries might have different approaches. Collection rates for portable batteries are currently very low in most EU States, including the UK, whereas collection rates for many types of industrial and automotive lead-acid batteries are already very high.
Therefore two approaches are being considered for industrial and automotive batteries whereas the most likely approach for primary batteries will be using producer compliance schemes.
The Directive will restrict the use of mercury and cadmium in batteries. The mercury restriction is unchanged from the
1991 Battery Directive but the cadmium restriction is new.
• Mercury in batteries except button cells
Maximum of 0.0005% mercury by weight of battery
• Mercury in button cells
Maximum of 2% mercury by weight of battery
• Cadmium in batteries
Maximum of 0.002% cadmium by weight of battery but with three exemptions –
• Emergency and alarm systems including emergency lighting
• Medical equipment
• Cordless power tools (this exclusion will be reviewed by September 2010 and may be withdrawn)
Note that there is no restriction on lead in batteries but if present at > 0.004% by weight the battery must be labelled
with ‘Pb’.
For further info, you can download this document (from Premier Farnell).
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