Government stalls EU battery recycling directive

Consumers will have to make alternative arrangements for the disposal of spent batteries following the decision by the UK Government to put a clause in the EU battery directive on hold.

From 26 September, all retailers selling batteries or goods with batteries would have had to provide a service to accept waste batteries. However, consumers will have to wait until at least April or possibly the autumn of next year before this becomes law.

There are a few kerbside schemes run by some local councils, but the delay has led to retailers and recycling companies taking the law into their own hands.

Battery Back is a new recycling initiative launched by Weee Care. This compliance scheme for the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (Weee) directive is financing the cost of treatment and recovery of batteries until the battery directive is implemented.

It is working to provide over 80,000 free collection points over the next year. Many of these points will be in schools, colleges, libraries and other public buildings, as well as approved supermarkets and retailers.

Battery Back currently has 500 recycling points; its website can tell you if there is one local to you.

Waste battery collection banks are also being installed in 750 Dixons, Curry's and PC World outlets across the UK.

Roberts Radio is also implementing a battery take-back scheme It has teamed up with 21 independent electrical stores to pilot Weecycle, a free battery recycling scheme nationwide. A list of participating stores can be found on its website.