Introduction
New legislation has been introduced to increase the amount of batteries getting recycled in the UK.

In 2008, the UK only recycled 2.8% of all batteries put onto the market, with the vast majority of waste batteries are disposed of in landfill sites. Most batteries contain heavy metals, and are a significant cause for environmental concern. When disposed of incorrectly, these heavy metals may leak into the ground when the battery casing corrodes. This can contribute to soil and water pollution and endanger wildlife.

The new legislation has set a target for recycling of 25% by 2012, and 45% by 2016.

The legislation includes requirements on battery labelling and design through the Batteries and Accumulators (Placing on the Market) Regulations 2008, and on the collecting, treating and recycling waste batteries and accumulators, through the Waste Batteries and Accumulators Regulations 2009. These rules are now in force.

This section gives an overview of the legislation, and provides information on what RS Components has put in place to help you recycle batteries, and in turn help to achieve the future recycling targets.

As a producer of batteries, we have registered with the scheme operated by Batteryback, and our Battery Producer Registration Number is:

BPRN00491