The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has officially notified the Battery Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2025, in effect from February 24, 2025. These amendments enhance the existing Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022, with the aim of restructuring compliance and enhancing environmental accountability in battery recycling and disposal.

Key Amendments for producers and Recyclers

Exemption for Packaging Covered Under Legal Metrology Rules
One of the prominent changes introduced through the amendment is the exemption of particular packaging from the labeling requirements defined in the original 2022 rules. As per the updated Schedule I, packaging covered under Rule 26 of the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2011 is no longer subject to the labelling requirements of Clause (ia). This decision removes unnecessary compliance obligations and provides much needed relief to small producers and importers from managing the dual regulatory framework.

QR Code and Barcode Labeling Now Accepted
To boost traceability and improve data management, the amendment permits manufacturers to fulfill their labeling obligations by using QR codes or barcodes that include the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) registration number. These codes can be printed on the battery itself, the equipment containing the battery, individual packaging, appliance packaging or bulk packaging not meant for retail sale. In addition, the EPR registration number should also be printed in the product information brochure. The CPCB will maintain and update a consolidated list of compliant producers on its centralized online portal and in every quarter.

Relaxation in Marking of Hazardous Substances
The amendment also introduces relaxation in the mandatory chemical symbol marking on batteries. All batteries containing poly, cadmium (Cd) or lead (Pb) were required to have the chemical symbol on them. Under the new rules, this requirement is waived if the cadmium concentration is ≤ 0.002% (20 ppm) or the Lead concentration is ≤ 0.004% (40 ppm) by weight. This alteration is expected to reduce regulatory pressure on manufacturers and encourage smooth trade, especially for products where such trace levels are incidental and not environmentally hazardous.
 

Implications for Producers and Recyclers

These amendments have major implications for stakeholders in the battery and electronics sector. The adoption of digital labelling through QR code or barcode not only enhances traceability but also aligns India's compliance framework with global trends on e-waste and battery waste management. For producers, especially those who are involved in large inventories or bulk packaging, this flexibility permits for better integrate of environmental responsibility within their existing logistics and supply chains.

The Battery Waste Management Amendment Rules, 2025 is an important step towards improving battery waste management in India. By restructuring labeling requirements, enhancing traceability, and refining the marking of hazardous materials, these amendments promote a more sustainable and efficient battery recycling ecosystem.