Battery Waste Management Rules 2022

Introduction:

The Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC) issued an Office Memorandum (OM) on November 14, 2023, detailing crucial timelines for compliance with Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) targets and submission of annual returns under the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022. This memorandum provides clarity for producers on their obligations for fiscal years 2022-23 and 2023-24.

Key Highlights of the OM

1. Batteries under E-Waste Management Rules, 2016: For FY 2022-23, compliance for EPR targets concerning batteries covered under 21 products listed in Schedule I of the erstwhile E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2016, will be integrated into the obligations of the old rules. This means that producers should account for these batteries as per the previous regulatory framework.

2. Other Batteries: Batteries not covered under the 21 products specified will have their EPR targets for FY 2022-23 deferred. Compliance for these batteries will be required in FY 2023-24, giving producers an extended timeline to meet their EPR targets.

Deadline for Compliance and Submission

The OM sets a clear deadline for producers to ensure compliance and submission of annual returns: – For FY 2022-23 (for batteries not under the 21 specified products) – For FY 2023-24 (for all types of batteries) The final date for meeting these requirements is June 30, 2024. Producers must file their annual returns on the EPR portal within this timeline.

Implications for Producers

Producers must take note of these stipulations and ensure they align their compliance activities accordingly. The extended deadline offers a crucial window for those dealing with batteries outside the specified 21 products, allowing them to integrate their EPR targets into their operational plans for the next fiscal year. This proactive approach by the MoEFCC aims to streamline the transition to the new Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022, ensuring that producers have adequate time to adapt and comply without compromising environmental responsibilities.

Conclusion:

Timely compliance and submission of annual returns by June 30, 2024, is imperative. Producers are urged to leverage this extension to fulfill their EPR obligations efficiently and contribute to sustainable battery waste management.

Download: EPR Targets and Annual Returns for Battery Waste Management 2022