RS Jump Starts Battery Recycling in UK

RS Components has unveiled its battery recycling service for customers in accordance with Part 2 of The Batteries Directive, The Waste Batteries and Accumulators Regulations 2009, which came into force on Feb 1, 2010.

As a producer of batteries, RS has registered with the recycling scheme operated by BatteryBack. Most portable and industrial batteries can be recycled at RS Trade Counters, alternatively BatteryBack has now established over 2000 battery collection points, a figure that is growing daily and aims to have 30,000 sites by the end of 2010 and over 60,000 by the end of 2012. RS customers can also arrange for BatteryBack to collect waste batteries free-of-charge from their premises, provided the weight of portable batteries exceeds 30kg.

Customers can find full details of the recycling options on RS’ website in a section dedicated to the Batteries Directive. Information about the regulations, frequently asked questions and links to other useful websites are also provided.  

In 2008, the UK only recycled 2.8% of all batteries put onto the market, with the vast majority of waste batteries being disposed of in landfill sites. The new legislation has set a target for recycling of 25 per cent by 2012, and 45 per cent by 2016, which RS is committed to helping to achieve.

Already compliant with Part 1 of The Batteries Directive - The Batteries and Accumulators (Placing on the Market) Regulations 2008, RS is also fully compliant with Part 2, The Waste Batteries and Accumulators Regulations 2009.

Both parts of the Directive apply to all types of batteries and accumulators, regardless of their shape, volume, weight, material composition or use (industrial, automotive and portable), placed on the EU market on or after 26 September 2008.