Batteries not included
05 August 2008
Batteries not included
The government has confirmed that it will not be ready to implement the Batteries Directive into UK law by the deadline of 26 September. One of the main provisions of the Directive is the collection, treatment and recycling of portable batteries.
It was expected that government would produce Regulations to control the circulation of batteries in this country but it has now said that as a result of the “considerable complexity involved in setting up an effective and efficient system for portable batteries…”, it will be unable to meet the deadline.
The government and producers have been fighting it out about who is to pay for collection schemes and it would appear that the producers have lost the battle. Small businesses/outlets, however, will probably be exempt, not only because the carbon cost of individual collection points would be disproportionate from a transport position.
Although producers will have ultimate responsibility for collection, consultations are continuing with manufacturers, reprocessors and local authorities on draft Regulations. It is expected that there will be different compulsory collection schemes, depending on the nature of the business, and that collection targets will be set for each scheme. If the scheme fails to meet the target then it will be open for review and withdrawal.
DEFRA has stated that any new system “will enter into force in 2009”, but does not say anything about when during 2009 this might happen.
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