This thesis presents a comprehensive exploration of the impact of EU battery regulations, Regulation (EU) 2023/1542, on end-of-life batteries, focusing on repurposing within the supply chain. We used both surveys and interviews to gather qualitative data from the stakeholders in the battery supply chain. These interviews dug deeper into aspects that the survey couldn´t fully capture, helping us better understand how EU regulations affect the supply chain. Results revealed a nuanced reality where EU regulations offer advantages by defining producer responsibilities, enhancing safety standards, and enabling data sharing. However, unintended consequences include competitive dynamics that may favor recycling over repurposing. Technical and organizational challenges, such as non-standardized battery designs and uncertainties regarding repurposed battery lifespans, also emerged. Various circular business models were explored under this environment, each requiring a functional value network and effective coordination among stakeholders. Overall this research contributes valuable insights as the EU seeks circularity in the battery supply chain. By addressing barriers, seizing opportunities, and fostering collaboration, it supports a sustainable and circular future in the EV battery chain, maximizing the value of initial investment and aligning with the goals of the energy transition. / Detta examensarbete presenterar en undersökning av effekten av EU:s batteriförordningar, förordning (EU) 2023/1542 som reglerar batterier vid livscykelns slut med fokus på återanvändning inom försörjningskedjan. Både enkäter och intervjuer använder för att samla in kvalitativa data från intressenter i batteriförsörjningskedjan. Intervjuerna gick djupare in på aspekter som enkäten inte kunde fånga fullt ut, vilket hjälpte oss att bättre förstå hur EU-förordningar påverkar försörjningskedjan. Resultaten avslöjade en nyanserad verklighet där EU-förordningarna erbjuder fördelar genom att definiera producentansvar, förbättra säkerhetsstandarder och möjliggöra datadelning. Dock uppstår oavsiktliga konsekvenser såsom konkurrensdynamik som kan främja återvinning framför återanvändning. Tekniska och organisatoriska utmaningar, såsom icke-standardiserade batteridesign och osäkerheter angående återanvända batteriers livslängd, framkom också. Olika cirkulära affärsmodeller utforskades i denna kontext, som alla förutsätter ett fungerade värdenätverk och effektiv samordning mellan intressenterna. Sammanfattningsvis bidrar denna forskning med värdefulla insikter i EU:s fortsatta strävan efter cirkularitet i batteriförsörjningskedjan. Genom att uppmärksamma hinder, utnyttja möjligheter och främja samarbete, stödjer forskningen en hållbar och cirkulär framtid i försörjningskedjan för elbilsbatterier. Detta maximerar värdskapandet från de ursprungliga investeringarna och ligger i linje med målen för energiövergången.

This master’s thesis aims to improve the circularity of the electric vehicle (EV) battery value chain, specifically focusing on sustainable waste management of Lithium-Ion Batteries (LIBs) in Europe, particularly Sweden. The research objectives include evaluating and proposing actionable recommendations to enhance circularity, addressing environmental impacts, and supporting the industry’s transition towards a sustainable business model aligned with the new European Union (EU) Battery Regulation, which aims to enhance recycling rates, reduce environmental impact, and secure the recovery of valuable materials. The key research questions addressed are: (1) What initiatives, technologies, or best practices are currently being developed to support circularity and sustainable waste management in the EV battery value chain? (2) How can the circularity of the EV battery value chain be enhanced, particularly in sustainable waste management for LIBs? (3) What environmental impacts, socio-economic opportunities, and challenges exist in a circular value chain in the EV battery industry? The methodology employed a mixed-methods approach, including a literature review and case study, stakeholder interviews, SWOT analysis and life cycle assessment (LCA) using Minviro LCA software to quantify and compare the environmental impacts of state-of-the-art industrial LIB recycling methods. Key findings indicate that several initiatives and technologies are being developed to support circularity, including advanced recycling technologies and second-life applications for batteries. Enhancing circularity requires regulatory support, technological advancements, and stakeholder collaborative efforts. The findings highlight significant potential for extending the lifecycle of EV batteries through re-use, re-purposing, and recycling strategies. The analysis reveals that advancements in recycling technologies and supportive regulatory frameworks can substantially reduce the environmental impact and improve LIB supply chain sustainability. Notably, the LCA results highlight that mechanical and hydrometallurgical recycling processes offer more favourable environmental outcomes than pyrometallurgical methods. Thus, it shows potential for lower environmental impact on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and resource depletion, alongside socio-economic opportunities like job creation and economic growth. However, challenges such as technological barriers, economic feasibility, regulatory compliance, and EV battery value chain complexities remain, and these must be addressed. The conclusions drawn from the findings recommend that a combination of regulatory support, technological innovation, and stakeholder collaboration is essential for improving the circularity of the EV battery value chain. The study recommends advancements in recycling technologies, developing efficient testing and certification processes for second-life batteries, and establishing clear regulatory frameworks to facilitate circular economy practices. These measures are crucial for supporting the industry’s shift towards a more sustainable and circular model, ultimately contributing to the EU’s climate neutrality goals by 2050.