(a) Role of end users in waste prevention

End users play a key role in preventing waste by using vehicle parts and batteries responsibly. Extend battery life by ensuring correct charging, avoiding deep discharges, and using vehicles according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Return old batteries when you buy new ones, and avoid keeping spare batteries “just in case” if they are not needed. Reduce unnecessary part replacements by maintaining vehicles properly (e.g., checking terminals, cleaning battery surfaces, and following maintenance schedules).

(b) Role of end users in separate collection of waste batteries

End users must ensure that batteries are collected separately from general waste. Never throw batteries in the household bin, mixed waste, or in general recycling containers. Batteries contain hazardous substances and must be treated as separate waste. When purchasing a new vehicle battery or related spare part, hand over your old battery to the seller or to an authorised collection point. If you are a business or workshop customer, keep waste batteries in a dedicated, clearly labelled container and arrange regular collection with a licensed waste battery handler.

(c) Separate collection, take-back, and treatment options

There are several options for collecting, taking back, and treating waste batteries.

At the stage of a battery end of life this must follow take back and disposal by authorised recyclers. More specifically:

(d) Safety instructions for handling waste batteries

Handling waste batteries safely protects you, your staff, and the environment. Wear gloves and eye protection when handling batteries, especially lead-acid types, because they contain corrosive electrolyte (acid).

Do not puncture, crush, short-circuit, or disassemble batteries; this can cause fire, explosion, or leakage of toxic substances. Store batteries upright in a dedicated, non-metal container (e.g., plastic box or UN-approved drum), away from heat, direct sunlight, and flammable materials. If acid leakage occurs, rinse the affected area with plenty of water and seek medical or professional advice if skin or eyes are exposed.

(e) Meaning of markings and symbols on batteries

Batteries carry standard symbols that indicate how they must be treated. Crossed-out wheeled bin symbol: This means the battery must not be disposed of as unsorted municipal waste and must be delivered to a separate collection or take-back scheme.

Chemical symbols (Pb, Cd, Hg): These indicate the presence of lead, cadmium, or mercury, which are heavy metals and require special handling and recycling.

Voltage, capacity, and chemistry markings (e.g., 12 V, 70 Ah, Li-Ion): These are technical details for correct replacement; they do not indicate safety symbols, so always check the icon-based labels as well.

(f) Effects of substances contained in batteries

Batteries contain substances that can harm health and the environment if not managed properly. Lead (Pb) – found mainly in automotive lead-acid batteries – is toxic to the nervous system and can pollute soil and groundwater if batteries are dumped.

Cadmium (Cd) and mercury (Hg) – present in some older or niche battery types – are highly toxic heavy metals that can accumulate in ecosystems and cause long-term health damage.

Sulphuric acid and other electrolytes – can cause burns, damage metals, and release dangerous fumes if short-circuited or overheated.

Lithium and other reactive materials – in lithium-ion batteries – can catch fire or explode if damaged, short-circuited, or exposed to high temperatures.