The European Union (EU) 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 were not achieved as most portable batteries were still sent to landfill (although some countries have efficient collection schemes in place). As a result, the EU adopted, battery directive (2006/66/EC) that came into force on the 26th of September 2008 and repealed the previous Directive. However, batteries placed on the market on, or before, the 25th of September 2008 only need to comply with 91/157/EEC.
The EC has now published guidance on battery capacity which is incorporated into the Guide attached.
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