Batteries are non-rechargeable (or only very limited rechargeable) storage devices for electrical energy. They are also referred to as primary cells. The Battery Act classifies batteries according to their area of application. A distinction is made between device, vehicle, and industrial batteries.
Accumulators are rechargeable storage elements, also known as secondary cells. Several secondary cells connected together are also referred to as a battery. The main components of batteries are mostly metals. Recycling these metals helps to conserve resources. However, batteries also contain substances that are hazardous to health and the environment. For this reason, they must not be disposed of with residual waste.
The return of used batteries is mainly the responsibility of battery distributors (retailers).
You can return used batteries to the distributor free of charge if they are or were included in their product range as new batteries, either permanently or temporarily. The take-back obligation is limited to normal household quantities.
Manufacturers of portable batteries fulfill their product responsibility by setting up battery take-back systems and ensuring that used portable batteries are collected, recycled, or disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner. A list of currently approved take-back systems can be found on the website of the "stiftung elektro-altgeräte register (ear)" (WEEE Register Foundation).
The take-back systems generally use third-party agents, i.e., logistics or waste disposal companies, which take back batteries on their behalf and fulfill the recycling obligations.
Many public waste disposal authorities also offer disposal of old batteries via recycling centers or hazardous waste collection vehicles.
The return of used batteries is primarily the responsibility of battery distributors (retailers).
