Waste Batteries and Accumulators Directive

The Waste Batteries and Accumulators Directive (Directive 2006/66/EC) sets out EU-wide regulations for the sale, collection, treatment, recycling, and disposal of batteries and accumulators. It prohibits the sale of batteries containing hazardous substances, like mercury and cadmium, above specific thresholds and mandates the labeling of such substances. Manufacturers are required to register in their sales destination countries and fund the waste management of batteries. The directive also requires clear instructions for end-users on battery removal and disposal, promoting environmental conservation. Compliance is mandatory for sellers in the EU, and different rules may apply within the UK post-Brexit.