The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) of India has recently announced amendments to the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2023, on October 25, 2023. The key updates to the Amendment are as follows:
- Revised Definition of “Battery”: The amendment includes an updated definition of what constitutes a “Battery” for better clarity and understanding.
- Registration Requirement for Producers: Producers are now required to obtain registration from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Upon registration, producers will be issued a certificate of registration, valid until cancelled or withdrawn.
- Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Producers are mandated to take Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for batteries used for self-use, thereby ensuring accountability for the disposal and management of batteries.
These amendments aim to enhance the management and disposal of battery waste while promoting environmental sustainability and responsibility among producers and stakeholders.