Steve would probably come back from the grave the day Apple releases a Nokia style plastic back iPhone

The answer: Apple wants to rip people off.

I would think that as long as a battery is replaceable, it should suffice to meet environmental requirements.

Specifically regarding the iPhone, with the current battery replacement cost being under $100, I find it difficult to understand this being such an issue where an entire continent needs to make a rule against the design.

But I understand some people just want the ability to fix their own shit without having to bring it in for service. And I know this isn't just about phones but nearly everything that has a battery.