In accordance with Article 74 of Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning batteries and waste batteries
ETA, a. s., as a producer (where applicable through a producer responsibility organisation), fulfils its obligation to provide information to end-users and distributors under Regulation (EU) 2023/1542 in all EU Member States in which it places its products on the market. The information below relates to the individual battery models placed on the EU market and is updated on an ongoing basis.
Waste prevention and sustainable use
Waste can be reduced as early as when choosing a product and during its everyday use. We recommend:
- preferring batteries with a longer lifetime and, where possible, choosing rechargeable batteries instead of single-use ones,
- using the battery only for its intended purpose and in accordance with the product instructions,
- not exposing the battery to excessive temperatures, moisture or mechanical damage, including during storage when not in use,
- charging rechargeable batteries only with compatible chargers and power sources,
- if you will not be using the product for an extended period and the battery is removable, consider removing it.
Before discarding a battery, consider whether it still has sufficient capacity for further use – for example, in a device with lower power requirements.
Batteries that are still functional can continue to be used in the same or a similar device. For certain batteries, particularly rechargeable ones, a qualified operator may carry out preparation for re-use, preparation for repurposing, repurposing or remanufacturing, following an appropriate safety check.
Separate collection and end-user obligations
Waste batteries do not belong in unsorted municipal waste. Their separate collection enables safe treatment, recycling and recovery of materials, while also preventing environmental pollution. Waste batteries should never be discarded in the environment or disposed of with ordinary waste.
Collection points, take-back and treatment of batteries
Waste batteries can be returned free of charge at take-back points – for example at retailers, municipal collection sites or other locations designated by the municipality or an authorised waste management operator. As a producer, we ensure the take-back of waste batteries from our products and cover the costs of their collection, transport and further treatment; end-users are not charged any fee for returning a battery.
These points then ensure that the batteries are prepared for re-use, recycled or otherwise treated in accordance with applicable legislation.
The network of collection points and the specific take-back system differ between EU Member States; an up-to-date list of take-back points in your country is available from the locally competent collective scheme, your municipal or local authority, or our distributor or representative in the country concerned.
Safety instructions for handling waste batteries
When handling a waste battery, observe the following rules:
- never open, dismantle, deform or puncture the battery,
- prevent short-circuiting of the terminals, for example by covering them with non-conductive tape,
- until it is returned, store the battery in a dry, cool place out of the reach of children.
Lithium batteries require particular attention – if damaged or improperly handled, there is a risk of ignition or thermal decomposition. Do not expose a damaged lithium battery to heat or moisture, and return it to a collection point as soon as possible.
Meaning of labels and graphic symbols on the battery
Labels and graphic symbols on the battery, its packaging or in the accompanying documentation provide important information:
- crossed-out wheeled bin – the battery must not be disposed of with unsorted waste and must be taken to separate collection,
- chemical symbols Pb, Cd, Hg – the battery contains lead, cadmium or mercury above the specified limit,
- CE marking – confirms the battery’s conformity with the requirements of Regulation (EU) 2023/1542,
- information on capacity, performance or safety warnings.
End-users should consult these labels and symbols in order to understand the requirements for correct use, handling and disposal.
Impact on the environment and human health
Batteries may contain substances that are hazardous to human health and the environment if released – for example, compounds of lead, cadmium or lithium. Improper disposal – such as discarding a battery in the environment or in unsorted municipal waste – can lead to soil and water contamination, fires and danger to people and animals. Correct use, separate collection and professional treatment prevent these impacts and at the same time enable the recovery of valuable raw materials.