Battery Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2025: Key Updates and Industry Impact

Introduction

The Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has introduced the Battery Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2025, bringing significant updates to the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022. Notably, these changes strengthen compliance with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), enhance labeling standards, and increase transparency in battery recycling and disposal.

As a result, industries focusing on sustainable waste management must adapt to these new regulations. Specifically, these rules play a crucial role for battery manufacturers, importers, recyclers, and bulk consumers. Therefore, this blog provides a detailed overview of the key amendments, compliance requirements, and industry-wide implications, ensuring businesses stay ahead of regulatory changes.

Key Amendments in the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2025

1. Strengthening EPR Compliance with Barcode & QR Code Requirements

To enhance tracking and accountability, producers must print a barcode or QR code containing the EPR registration number on multiple components, including:

Battery or battery pack
Equipment containing batteries
Battery packaging
Bulk packaging (not for retail sale)

Moreover, manufacturers must ensure that the EPR registration number appears in the product information brochure. In addition, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) will regularly update and publish a consolidated list of compliant producers. By doing so, these measures promote greater transparency, reinforce regulatory oversight, and streamline compliance monitoring across the industry.

2. Exemptions for Packaging under Legal Metrology Rules

To eliminate redundant regulations, the amendments specifically exempt battery packaging covered under Rule 26 of the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011, from certain labeling requirements. Consequently, this exemption allows manufacturers to streamline compliance efforts, reduce regulatory duplication, and better align with existing legal frameworks. Furthermore, it enhances operational efficiency while ensuring that labeling requirements remain clear, relevant, and non-repetitive. Ultimately, this change supports a more cohesive regulatory approach, benefiting both industry stakeholders and enforcement authorities.

3. Revised Marking Requirements for Heavy Metals in Batteries

The new amendments significantly modify marking requirements for Cadmium (Cd) and Lead (Pb) in batteries. Specifically, if a battery contains:

≤ 0.002% (20 ppm) Cadmium by weight
≤ 0.004% (40 ppm) Lead by weight

Then, the requirement to mark chemical symbols like ‘Cd’ or ‘Pb’ no longer applies. As a result, this change effectively simplifies labeling regulations, minimizes unnecessary markings, and ensures that only environmentally hazardous batteries carry such labels. Furthermore, this amendment aligns with global best practices, enhancing regulatory efficiency while maintaining strict environmental safety standards.

4. Updated Compliance & Registration Process for Producers

Under the revised framework, producers must take immediate steps to comply, including:

Registering on the CPCB EPR Portal
- Submit company details, GST, PAN, and EPR targets.
Implementing Barcode & QR Code Printing
- Ensure proper labeling on batteries, equipment, and packaging.
Updating Data Quarterly on CPCB Portal
- Maintain accurate records of battery production, import, and recycling progress.
Ensuring Safe Disposal & Recycling
- Follow proper waste management protocols to meet EPR obligations.

These steps streamline compliance, enhance transparency, and ensure environmentally responsible battery disposal.

5. Industry Impact on Battery Manufacturers, Importers & Recyclers

The amendments introduce significant changes for key stakeholders, demanding immediate action:

Battery Producers & Importers: Must invest in barcode printing systems, upgrade tracking processes, and maintain detailed documentation.
Recyclers & Bulk Consumers: Need to monitor EPR compliance, report recycling targets, and coordinate with producers for efficient waste collection.
Electronics & Auto Industry: Stricter traceability rules impact companies dealing in EVs, smartphones, and industrial batteries, increasing compliance costs but enhancing sustainability efforts.

Therefore, businesses must act quickly, adapt their operations, and align with these updated regulatory requirements to ensure seamless compliance and avoid penalties.

6. Strict Penalties for Non-Compliance & Enforcement Measures

Companies that fail to meet EPR registration and labeling norms face serious consequences, including:

Fines and environmental penalties under the Environment Protection Act, 1986
Cancellation or suspension of EPR registration
Product bans and restrictions on sales and imports
Frequent audits by CPCB & State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs)

Furthermore, regulators will intensify monitoring efforts to ensure companies adhere to updated compliance standards without delays. By doing so, authorities aim to strengthen enforcement, reduce regulatory violations, and promote responsible battery waste management.

Conclusion

The Battery Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2025, further reinforce India’s commitment to a circular economy and sustainable battery recycling. By implementing barcode and QR code labeling, the amendments significantly enhance transparency, accountability, and regulatory efficiency. Moreover, these measures ensure better compliance while simultaneously simplifying tracking and reporting processes.

Therefore, industries must immediately act, carefully update their labeling processes, and fully align with EPR guidelines to avoid penalties. Additionally, proactive compliance will not only help businesses meet regulatory requirements but also contribute to a cleaner environment. Ultimately, these efforts will pave the way for responsible battery waste management and a sustainable future.

Download: Battery Waste Management Rules 2025: Key Amendments