EPR in Germany: what about BattG?

In e-commerce, it is critical for business owners to stay abreast of the laws and regulations that affect their operations, especially when operating internationally. One of the most important aspects you have to deal with when selling products in Germany are the EPR regulations. This has 3 categories, including the BattG (Batteriegesetz).

In this article, we explain exactly what BattG is, why you need a BattG registration and when you need one as an e-commerce entrepreneur. We also provide a roadmap for when you want to register your business for BattG.

What is BattG?

Let’s start with the basics: what does BattG really mean? BattG stands for the German“Batteriegesetz” (Batteries Law), a law designed to reduce the environmental impact of batteries and accumulators through collection and recycling. By law, producers and distributors of batteries and accumulators are responsible for the life cycle of their products, including end-of-life collection and recycling.

Why is BattG important for e-commerce entrepreneurs?

As an e-commerce entrepreneur, you are required to comply with the BattG if you sell batteries or products with built-in batteries to customers in Germany. The law aims to keep harmful substances that can be in batteries, such as lead, mercury and cadmium, out of the environment. By complying with the BattG, you contribute to a circular economy, protect the environment, and build trust with your customers by showing that your company takes responsibility for its products.

When do you have to comply with the BattG?

You must comply with the BattG regulations as soon as you sell batteries or products with built-in batteries directly to consumers in Germany, regardless of whether your business is located in Germany or elsewhere. This applies to all types of batteries, from small button cells to large batteries used in electric vehicles.

How do you comply with the BattG?

Meeting the BattG requires some specific steps:

Registration: before selling batteries or accumulators in Germany, you must register your company with the joint return system and Stiftung EAR. This ensures that you are able to meet your collection and recycling obligations.

Marking and information: all batteries and accumulators must be clearly marked with the appropriate symbol(a crossed-out waste bin) and information on heavy metal content. In addition, you must educate customers about the proper disposal and recycling of batteries.

Monthly declaration: you are required to file monthly declarations showing the total weight by battery type that your company put on the market.

Collection and recycling: you must set up a system for the collection of waste batteries and accumulators and ensure that they are recycled responsibly.

The benefits of compliance

Compliance with the BattG offers several benefits:

Environmental protection: by contributing to the collection and recycling of batteries, you help keep harmful substances out of the environment.

Reputation management: customers value companies that are environmentally conscious. By being open about “participating” in EPR rules, you show that your company takes responsibility for its environmental impact.

Avoiding fines: compliance avoids fines and legal problems that can result from not complying with German law.

Conclusion

For e-commerce entrepreneurs operating in the German market, it is essential to understand and comply with the BattG. This not only shows that your company values environmental protection, but it also strengthens your brand reputation and trust with consumers. By proactively participating in the EPR program and complying with the BattG, you are taking important steps toward a sustainable and greener future.

Need EPR advice?

Not quite getting there, or not sure which category of EPR you fall into? Staxxer can help. Schedule a consultation with one of our experts via this link. Here you can ask all your questions about European EPR (and VAT!), and get advice tailored to your business. And if you want, we can arrange your German WEEE or VerpackG right away.