The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), vide its notification dated 24 February 2025, has introduced the Battery Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2025. These amendments have been notified under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 and bring significant changes to the existing Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022 to further streamline Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and improve environmental compliance in the battery sector.
The notification aims to enhance traceability, simplify compliance requirements, and promote transparency in the management of battery waste in India.
Key Highlights of the Battery Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2025
1. Mandatory Display of EPR Registration Number through QR Code or Barcode
The amendment mandates that all Producers of batteries must print their EPR Registration Number in the form of a QR code or barcode. This requirement applies to the following:
- Batteries or battery packs
- Electrical and electronic equipment containing batteries
- Packaging of batteries or equipment containing batteries
- Bulk (non-retail) packaging
- Product brochures or information booklets accompanying the product
This move is intended to facilitate digital traceability of batteries throughout their lifecycle, enhancing compliance monitoring and waste management efforts.
2. Exemption for Packaging under Legal Metrology Rules
The notification provides an exemption for products whose packaging is already governed under Rule 26 of the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011. Such packaging is not required to carry the additional QR code or barcode as mandated for other packaging types.
This exemption is expected to reduce duplication of labeling requirements and provide regulatory clarity to manufacturers.
3. Relaxation in Marking of Chemical Symbols (Cd and Pb)
Under the amended rules, producers are not required to mark the chemical symbols for:
- Cadmium (Cd) if the cadmium content is less than or equal to 0.002% by weight (20 ppm)
- Lead (Pb) if the lead content is less than or equal to 0.004% by weight (40 ppm)
This relaxation removes unnecessary labeling obligations for batteries containing minimal levels of these hazardous substances, aligning compliance requirements with environmental risk thresholds.
4. Quarterly Public Disclosure by CPCB
To promote greater transparency, the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) will maintain and publish a quarterly updated list of producers who have implemented the QR code/barcode system as required by the amended rules. This publicly accessible list will strengthen compliance oversight and provide clear visibility of responsible producers.
Objectives of the Amendment
The key objectives behind the introduction of the Battery Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2025 are:
- Enhancing Traceability: By introducing digital labelling through QR codes/barcodes, the government aims to enable end-to-end tracking of batteries from production to end-of-life.
- Simplifying Compliance: Easing marking obligations and avoiding overlapping packaging regulations reduces compliance burden for producers.
- Boosting Transparency: Public disclosure of compliant producers fosters accountability and informed consumer choices.
- Aligning with International Best Practices: The amendments reflect global trends in battery waste management and producer responsibility.
Compliance Requirements for Producers
All producers engaged in the manufacturing, importing, or placing of batteries on the market must:
- Ensure QR Code/Barcode Labelling on products, packaging, and documentation as specified.
- Identify Exempt Packaging that falls under Legal Metrology to avoid redundant labelling.
- Apply Chemical Marking Exemptions where the concentration thresholds for cadmium and lead are met.
- Maintain Active EPR Registration on the CPCB Battery EPR Portal.
- Monitor CPCB Quarterly Lists to ensure continued visibility and compliance.
Download the Official Notification
The official text of the Battery Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2025 can be accessed and downloaded here:
Stakeholders are advised to review the complete notification to understand the scope of changes and align their compliance practices accordingly.
How CertificationsBay Can Assist
At CertificationsBay, we help businesses navigate the complex landscape of Battery EPR Compliance in India. Our services include:
- End-to-End EPR Registration for Batteries
- Product Labelling Advisory
- Quarterly Return Filing and CPCB Portal Assistance
- Regulatory Compliance Support for Legal Metrology and Hazardous Substances
Our expert team ensures that your business remains fully compliant with the latest regulations while minimizing operational disruptions.
👉 Need expert assistance? Contact CertificationsBay for customized solutions.
Conclusion
The Battery Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2025, notified by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), mark a progressive step towards responsible battery waste management and sustainable practices. With enhanced traceability, reduced compliance burdens, and greater transparency, these amendments are poised to reshape the way producers manage their environmental responsibilities in India.
Staying compliant with these evolving regulations is crucial—not only to avoid penalties but also to demonstrate environmental stewardship and regulatory integrity.
