Federal Environment Ministry prepares amendments to ElektroG and BattG in Q1

The Federal Ministry for the Environment is about to publish the drafts for the amendments to the Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act (ElektroG) and the Batteries Act (BattG), which are expected by the end of the first quarter of 2024. These planned changes reflect a development in the regulation of electrical appliances and batteries in Germany that aims to strengthen the requirements for the circular economy and reduce the environmental impact of these products.

Purpose of the amendment

The focus of the planned amendment to the law is on realising the goals set out in the coalition agreement to create a support system for the environmentally responsible disposal of selected electrical appliances and lithium-ion batteries. The aim is to reduce the risk of fires caused by damaged batteries or batteries remaining in the appliance and to increase the quantities of these old appliances returned. There are also plans to expand the take-back system for disposable e-cigarettes in order to improve their environmentally friendly disposal.

Outlook and implications for manufacturers and retailers

The upcoming changes require companies and manufacturers to adapt their compliance strategies quickly in order to fulfil the new legal requirements. Early involvement in the amendment process enables stakeholders to influence the design of future regulations and prepare for the implementation of the new provisions.

Monitoring legislative changes

The revision of these laws underlines the need for companies to keep up to date with changing regulatory requirements in order to ensure compliance and minimise potential risks.

In this context, Compliance Solutions proves to be your point of contact for the legal changes. With a comprehensive service portfolio ranging from consulting services to customised solutions for compliance with ElektroG, BattG and other relevant environmental legislation, we ensure that our clients are always up to date with the latest legislative developments.

Would you like to find out more about our Environmental Consulting? If you have any questions, please contact Stefanie Kutzera.