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Closing the Loop: Exploring the Challenges and Opportunities for Circular Electronics under the EU Battery Regulation: Battery Removability and Spare Part Requirements for Consumer Electronics.

Cremona, Maria Clara LU (2025) In IIIEE Master Thesis IMEM01 20251
The International Institute for Industrial Environmental Economics
Abstract
The EU Battery Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2023/1542) mandates that by February 2027, electronic products must be designed so that users or independent professionals can replace their own batteries. While implementing this legislation in larger devices is relatively straightforward, it is unfortunately more difficult for small wearable electronics, such as in-ear headphones, due to their compact design. Therefore, this study aims to assess the implications of Article 11 on small wearable consumer electronics, like in-ear headphones. This research uses a qualitative approach, employing a combined theoretical framework that includes the TSE model and the goals- and side-effect-oriented environmental evaluation model. The data for this study... (More)
The EU Battery Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2023/1542) mandates that by February 2027, electronic products must be designed so that users or independent professionals can replace their own batteries. While implementing this legislation in larger devices is relatively straightforward, it is unfortunately more difficult for small wearable electronics, such as in-ear headphones, due to their compact design. Therefore, this study aims to assess the implications of Article 11 on small wearable consumer electronics, like in-ear headphones. This research uses a qualitative approach, employing a combined theoretical framework that includes the TSE model and the goals- and side-effect-oriented environmental evaluation model. The data for this study consist of interviews and document analysis from all relevant stakeholders related to this legislation. The findings reveal that, because of limited space, implementing modularity may lead to larger, less ergonomic devices. Additionally, modularity could impact the product’s IP rating. However, they also indicate that modularity is feasible, as glueing and soldering can be replaced with screws and gaskets. Ensuring consumer safety remains a primary concern for manufacturers, but this can be managed through sound engineering practices. Moreover, some ambiguity remains regarding standards and guidelines. Furthermore, systemic issues such as the pricing of spare parts and insufficient market surveillance could undermine the legislation’s effectiveness as intended by the EU. (Less)
Please use this url to cite or link to this publication:
author
Cremona, Maria Clara LU
supervisor
organization
course
IMEM01 20251
year
type
H2 - Master's Degree (Two Years)
subject
keywords
EU Battery Regulation, Article 11, battery replaceability, electronics, in-ear headphones
publication/series
IIIEE Master Thesis
report number
2025:36
ISSN
1401-9191
language
English
id
9215368
date added to LUP
2025-11-14 09:52:49
date last changed
2025-11-14 09:52:49
@misc{9215368,
  abstract     = {{The EU Battery Regulation (Regulation (EU) 2023/1542) mandates that by February 2027, electronic products must be designed so that users or independent professionals can replace their own batteries. While implementing this legislation in larger devices is relatively straightforward, it is unfortunately more difficult for small wearable electronics, such as in-ear headphones, due to their compact design. Therefore, this study aims to assess the implications of Article 11 on small wearable consumer electronics, like in-ear headphones. This research uses a qualitative approach, employing a combined theoretical framework that includes the TSE model and the goals- and side-effect-oriented environmental evaluation model. The data for this study consist of interviews and document analysis from all relevant stakeholders related to this legislation. The findings reveal that, because of limited space, implementing modularity may lead to larger, less ergonomic devices. Additionally, modularity could impact the product’s IP rating. However, they also indicate that modularity is feasible, as glueing and soldering can be replaced with screws and gaskets. Ensuring consumer safety remains a primary concern for manufacturers, but this can be managed through sound engineering practices. Moreover, some ambiguity remains regarding standards and guidelines. Furthermore, systemic issues such as the pricing of spare parts and insufficient market surveillance could undermine the legislation’s effectiveness as intended by the EU.}},
  author       = {{Cremona, Maria Clara}},
  issn         = {{1401-9191}},
  language     = {{eng}},
  note         = {{Student Paper}},
  series       = {{IIIEE Master Thesis}},
  title        = {{Closing the Loop: Exploring the Challenges and Opportunities for Circular Electronics under the EU Battery Regulation: Battery Removability and Spare Part Requirements for Consumer Electronics.}},
  year         = {{2025}},
}