Retailers must get ready to comply
New regulations for battery recycling mean that any retailer selling over 32kg of batteries per year must by law provide free battery collection and recycling facilities by February 2010.
Amongst the major retailers, Morrisons have got ahead of the game and started trialling battery recycling facilities at a number of their stores, with plans to roll out nationally well before the February deadline? A number of smaller retailers also intend getting a head start.
BatteryBack plc, established by Veolia and WasteCare are already operating a national collection and recycling service. Providing a range of BatteryCans to suit all needs, the aim is to collect low cost batteries as part of their existing hazardous
waste services.
Peter Hunt, chairman of BatteryBack says: "Retailers do not want extra trucks visiting stores to collect small quantities of batteries. At the same time they will not want to handle potentially hazardous waste over which they have little control. Combining battery collections with other waste removal will be safer and will reduce costs. A number of retailers, who sell own brand batteries, will also need to be registered producers; combining compliance with collection is a win win for everyone.
"Around one billion batteries are discarded in Britain each year. Currently, less than three per cent are recycled. This has to increase to 25 per cent by 2012 and then to 45 per cent by 2016. Retailers have an important role in helping the country achieve its targets. Data shows that stores that offer battery collection sell more batteries, so really, it is a bit of a no brainer."
All retailers need to act soon to make sure they are ready before the February 2010 deadline.
Turn a negative into a positive - contact Ali West on 0844 800 5671
For more information contact:
Email: policy@wastecare.co.uk