Every day, we use batteries — in our phones, remotes, toys, and even cars. But have you ever thought about what happens when those batteries die?
Old or used batteries don’t just “go away.” They can harm our environment if not handled properly. That’s where EPR (Extended Producer Responsibility) comes in.
EPR is a rule that makes manufacturers (the companies that make or sell batteries) responsible for what happens to their batteries even after consumers throw them away. This means they must make sure the batteries are collected, recycled, or safely disposed of.
In this blog, we’ll explain what EPR for battery waste means, why it matters, and what every manufacturer needs to know to follow the law — in simple, easy words.
What is Battery Waste?
Battery waste means old or used batteries that can no longer produce power. These include:
Mobile phone batteries
Laptop batteries
Car batteries
Inverter or industrial batteries
Rechargeable batteries from toys, cameras, etc.
Batteries contain metals like lead, mercury, cadmium, and lithium — these are hazardous materials. If batteries are thrown into dustbins or landfills, these chemicals can leak into the soil and water, harming animals, plants, and humans.
So, battery waste management is very important to protect our planet and our health.
What is Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)?
Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) means that companies that make, import, or sell batteries are responsible for their products even after customers use them.
In simple words —
If you make it, you must also take care of it after use.
So, if a company sells batteries, it must make sure that these batteries are collected back, recycled, or disposed of properly without harming the environment.
Why is EPR for Battery Waste Important?
EPR is not just a law; it’s a commitment to sustainability. Here’s why it matters:
Protects the environment – Reduces pollution from hazardous chemicals in batteries.
Keeps people healthy – Prevents toxic leaks that can cause diseases or birth defects.
Encourages recycling – Useful metals like lithium and cobalt can be reused to make new batteries.
Promotes responsible business – Makes manufacturers more careful about product design and disposal.
Supports India’s waste management goals – Helps achieve a cleaner, greener nation.
Who Needs EPR for Battery Waste?
Every company that deals with batteries in any way must follow EPR compliance, including:
Battery manufacturers
Importers of batteries or battery-powered devices
Assemblers of electronic gadgets with built-in batteries
Brand owners selling products that use batteries
They all must register and get EPR authorization from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Steps for Getting EPR Authorization for Battery Waste
Here’s a simple step-by-step guide for manufacturers:
1. Understand the Battery Waste Management Rules
India’s Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022 make it compulsory for producers to follow EPR. These rules apply to all kinds of batteries — portable, automotive, industrial, and electric vehicle (EV) batteries.
2. Apply for EPR Registration
Manufacturers and importers must apply on the CPCB online portal for EPR authorization. This shows that they have a proper plan to collect and recycle used batteries.
3. Prepare an EPR Plan
The plan should include:
How the batteries will be collected after use
How recycling or refurbishment will be done
Partnerships with authorized recyclers or refurbishers
4. Work with Authorized Recyclers
Companies must send collected battery waste only to authorized recyclers who have hazardous waste management authorization. This ensures recycling happens safely and legally.
5. Maintain Records and File Reports
Every producer must keep records of how much waste is collected and recycled. They must also file EPR post-compliance reports regularly with the CPCB.
What Happens If You Don’t Follow EPR Rules?
Not following EPR rules is against the law. The CPCB can:
Impose heavy fines
Suspend or cancel your license
Stop your import or production
Take legal action under environmental laws
So, compliance is not optional — it’s essential for every responsible manufacturer.
Link Between EPR and Hazardous Waste Management
Used batteries are treated as hazardous waste because they contain harmful chemicals.
That’s why companies dealing with used batteries also need Hazardous Waste Management Authorization under the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016.
If you plan to import or recycle hazardous materials, you also need a Hazardous Waste Import Authorization from CPCB or the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
This ensures that the movement and treatment of hazardous waste happen safely — without harming people or nature.
E-Waste and Battery Waste: The Connection
Battery waste is often linked with e-waste (electronic waste), since many electronic devices use batteries.
Manufacturers who already have E-Waste EPR Authorization must also follow Battery Waste Management EPR rules separately.
After selling the product, they must ensure:
Proper collection and recycling of old batteries
Post-compliance reports are submitted regularly
Only authorized recyclers are used for treatment and disposal
Benefits of Following EPR for Manufacturers
Following EPR rules is not just about avoiding penalties — it also offers real business benefits:
Builds a green brand image
Saves money through recycling valuable metals
Reduces legal and environmental risks
Increases customer trust and loyalty
Helps achieve global sustainability goals
How Enterclimate Helps with EPR Authorization
If you’re a manufacturer, importer, or recycler, getting EPR authorization can seem complex.
That’s where Enterclimate helps.
Enterclimate India Pvt. Ltd. is an environmental consultancy firm that provides end-to-end EPR compliance support — from application and documentation to report filing and post-compliance support.
Their team assists in:
Battery Waste Management Authorization
Hazardous Waste Management Authorization
Hazardous Waste Import Authorization
E-Waste EPR Post-Compliance Reports
With Enterclimate, you can stay 100% compliant, save time, and focus on growing your business responsibly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is EPR in simple words?
EPR means the company that makes or sells batteries is also responsible for collecting and recycling them after people use them.
2. Why are batteries considered hazardous waste?
Because they contain chemicals like lead, lithium, and mercury that can pollute soil and water and harm living beings.
3. Who needs EPR authorization for battery waste?
Every manufacturer, importer, or brand that deals with batteries must get EPR authorization from the CPCB.
4. What is EPR post-compliance?
It means submitting reports to the CPCB showing that you have collected and recycled waste as per your EPR plan.
5. What happens if a company doesn’t follow EPR rules?
The company may face fines, license cancellation, or a ban on production or imports.
6. How can Enterclimate help me?
Enterclimate helps businesses with EPR registration, documentation, hazardous waste authorization, and post-compliance reporting.
Author Profile
Author: Upendra | Environmental Compliance Writer, Enterclimate
Upendra is a sustainability writer and compliance expert passionate about creating awareness on waste management and environmental laws. He writes simple, informative content to help businesses understand their environmental responsibilities and stay compliant.
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