Track 2: Mid-Format Batteries – Current Policies, Practices, and Trends
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Summary
As required by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, EPA is developing battery collection best practices and voluntary battery labeling guidelines to improve battery collection and recycling and reduce incidents that threaten waste management worker safety. EPA is developing battery collection best practices for state, Tribal, and local governments to recycle batteries in a manner that is technically and economically feasible, and environmentally sound and safe, and that optimizes value and use of materials, including critical minerals.
On September 12, 2024, EPA hosted a virtual working session for Track 2: mid-format batteries on current policies, practices, and trends as part of EPA’s battery collection best practices initiative. For the purposes of these discussions, mid-format batteries are rechargeable batteries between 11 and 25 pounds or 300 to 2000 watt-hour ratings. This includes e-bikes, e-scooters, portable power stations, and outdoor power equipment.
This session provided an overview of mid-format battery policies, standards, collection programs, and trends. The session began with EPA providing background and timelines for the collection best practices and labeling guidelines, as well as key messages and practices from the Track 1: small format battery collection and labeling sessions that may be applicable to mid-format batteries.
Then, three speakers shared industry trends and experiences with programs and policies for managing mid-format batteries. First, EPA shared an update on the universal waste regulations that apply to batteries and how they promote safe, efficient battery recycling. Next, The Portable Rechargeable Battery Association presented on the state regulatory landscape and industry trends for mid-format batteries. PRBA highlighted increased consumer demand for battery-powered (instead of corded) products and the higher energy capacity that some new batteries offer. Finally, the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency shared insights on state-supported work to increase battery collection, including areas for program expansion.
Participants asked questions throughout the working session. EPA summarized these questions and answers in the slides linked below. In between speaker presentations, participants also shared their perspectives around the evolving mid-format battery landscape and life cycle through a Q&A. EPA concluded the session by providing dates and goals for upcoming working sessions and encouraging participants to submit additional input via batteries@epa.gov.
Speakers
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Ellen Meyer, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
- Pat Tallarico, Facilitator, Eastern Research Group Support Team.
- Kathy Lett, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
- Marc Boolish, The Portable Rechargeable Battery Association.
- James Jennings, Illinois Environmental Protection Agency.