The government has put a hold on the new EU battery directive that would require all retailers to institute battery takeback schemes for used batteries. The directive was expected to take effect on 26 September. Because of the delay, consumers may have to wait until April or perhaps even as late as the fall to see the battery directive become law.
Meanwhile, many retailers are voluntarily doing their part to create their own takeback programmes.
Until then, retailers and consumers may want to look into a new government programme being used to close the gap. The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) directive has introduced a compliance programme through WEEE Care entitled “Battery Back”. The scheme will finance the costs involved with treatment and recovery of batteries up to the time when the directive becomes law.
The scheme plans to provide more than 80,000 free collection sites throughout 2009. Many of the sites will be incorporated into educational facilities, libraries and other public buildings. Consumers will also find the drop off locations in convenient places such as approved supermarkets and retail stores. Drop off points are also being installed at 750 Dixons, PC World, and Curry’s. Currently, Battery Back operates from 500 collection points around the country. A list of sites is available on the operator’s website at batteryback.org.
Roberts Radio has also jumped on the bandwagon to create a battery takeback scheme. The company has already joined together with 21 independent electrical stores.
To learn more, go to: batteryback.org
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