EPR REGISTRATION FOR BATTERY WASTE MANAGEMENT

In recent times, the demand for batteries has increased rapidly due to technological advancements and the global shift toward clean energy. Significant investments are being made in the battery sector to develop efficient and long-term energy storage solutions that support the transition from fossil fuels to sustainable power sources. As emission-free electrification becomes a global priority, batteries have emerged as a critical component for storing renewable energy and ensuring a stable power supply.

With the growing adoption of renewable energy and increased dependence on electricity, the generation of battery waste is also rising at a considerable pace. This surge in used and discarded batteries poses serious environmental and safety challenges if not managed properly. To address these concerns and prevent potential environmental harm, a well-structured and forward-looking regulatory framework has become essential.

Recognizing this necessity, the Government of India introduced the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022. These rules were officially notified on 22 August 2022 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). The regulations replaced the earlier Battery (Management & Handling) Rules, 2001, with the objective of ensuring environmentally responsible handling, recycling, and disposal of waste batteries. The updated framework emphasizes sustainable practices, reduced environmental risks, and stronger accountability across the battery value chain.

The Battery Waste Management (BWM) Rules, 2022, introduced by the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change on August 22, 2022, mark a significant update in the regulation of battery waste in India. These rules emphasize Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), requiring battery producers—including manufacturers and importers—to oversee the entire lifecycle of their products, thereby addressing environmental and health impacts associated with battery waste.

The rules require batteries to be properly collected, recycled, or refurbished, regardless of their type, size, or chemistry. The primary objective is to reduce environmental and health risks associated with battery waste and promote sustainable battery disposal and recycling practices.

Under the BWM Rules, 2022, producers must register with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) through a centralized online portal by submitting an application in Form 1(A). This registration must be renewed before its expiry. The EPR framework places responsibility on producers to manage used batteries in an environmentally sound manner, helping protect human health and the environment.

Refurbishers and recyclers are also required to register with the respective State Pollution Control Boards through the same portal. While registration is a one-time requirement, they must submit quarterly returns in Form 4, detailing the collection, refurbishment, recycling of used batteries, and any hazardous waste generated. This system improves transparency and accountability in battery waste management.

Key Provisions of BWM Rules 2022

Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR): Producers must meet specific recycling and collection targets, as outlined in Schedule II of the BWM Rules. They are responsible for ensuring that waste batteries are properly recycled or refurbished through certified recyclers.

Centralized Portal for EPR Registration: Producers, recyclers, and refurbishers must register through the online portal developed by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) at www.eprbatterycpcb.in. This platform serves as a centralized data repository to improve accountability and track EPR compliance.

The cost for registering under EPR for battery waste management set by the government can change depending on how much waste you produce:

Fees for renewal of registration shall be the same as the registration fee. The fees shall be paid online through the payment gateway integrated in the portal. Application fees are exclusive of any transaction charges.

False Documentation - The registration of a Producer/Manufacturer may be canceled or suspended at any time if any submitted documents are found to be false.

Non-Compliance with EPR Obligations - The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) may suspend or cancel the registration and/or impose Environmental Compensation if the Producer/Manufacturer fails to comply with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) obligations as per Schedule II.

Violation of Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022 - The CPCB may suspend or cancel the registration and/or impose Environmental Compensation if the registered entity violates the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022.

Right to a Hearing - Producers/Manufacturers will be given an opportunity to present their case within 15 days of receiving the notice before the CPCB considers cancellation or suspension.

Appellate Authority - The Joint Secretary, or an equivalent officer in the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, will act as the Appellate Authority for these cases.

The Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022, represent a significant step towards improved environmental stewardship by mandating comprehensive EPR for battery waste. The centralized registration and monitoring system provides transparency and ensures strict compliance with the environmental goals of the BWM Rules, 2022. By implementing these rules, producers can enhance waste management practices, achieve cost savings, and bolster their corporate reputation. For a seamless EPR registration process, EVTL India stands out as a leading consultant specializing in battery waste management. Contact us to handle your EPR registration hassle-free and ensure full compliance with regulatory requirements.