Extended Battery Producer Responsibility Framework – Collection Models and Transportation Considerations
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Summary
As required by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, EPA and U.S. Department of Energy are developing an extended battery producer responsibility framework. The framework will address battery recycling goals, cost structures for mandatory recycling, reporting requirements, product design, collection models, and transportation of collected materials. The framework will also support the United States’ broader goals of restoring domestic energy dominance and reducing dependence on foreign energy sources by increasing the recycling and recyclability of critical minerals and materials. Recycling batteries will also strengthen the domestic critical mineral supply chain, create jobs, and improve safety across the entire waste management and recycling industry.
On August 26, 2025, EPA and DOE hosted a virtual conversation to discuss current collection site requirements in state battery extended battery producer responsibility laws and transportation approaches to ensure safe and effective coverage across geographic areas. EPA and DOE began by outlining the scope and purpose of the battery extended battery producer responsibility framework, highlighting how this effort is aimed at achieving national goals in recovering critical minerals and supporting states in battery collection and recycling. Following this overview, speakers from the NYC Department of Sanitation, Vermont Department of Conservation, Call2Recycle, and Recology presented on current collection models (e.g., curbside, drop-off) and transportation considerations in their extended battery producer responsibility programs, as well as challenges and lessons learned. EPA facilitated a conversation to gather insights on remaining gaps in state legislation and understand how the framework can best support state battery extended battery producer responsibility programs. The presentation slides are included below.
Speakers
- Pat Tallarico, Facilitator, Eastern Research Group Support Team
- Kim Cochran, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
- Amanda McAlpin, U.S. Department of Energy.
- Carl Smith, Eastern Research Group Support Team
- Kate Kitchener, NYC Department of Sanitation.
- Josh Kelly, Vermont Department of Conservation.
- Todd Ellis, Call2Recycle.
- Julia Mangin, Recology.