Assessing the Implementation of EU Circular Economy Policy in EV Battery Supply Chain: The Northvolt Case

This article examines the implementation of the EU’s circular economy policy in the electric vehicle (EV) battery supply chain, using Northvolt, a Swedish battery manufacturer, as a case study. It explores the EU’s Sustainable Batteries Regulation and its provisions for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) as a critical governance tool that support sustainable battery production. The article analysis Northvolt compliance with the EPR system, particularly, it’s closed-loop production model, which involves the recycling of critical raw materials from used batteries and the incorporation of these recycled materials into new battery production. The article further analyzes the participation of various actors in the EPR framework and how they contribute to the EU circular economy goals. It contends that the Northvolt case illustrates how policy compliance can drive innovation and reduce environmental impacts in the EV battery sector.