Several U.S. states are leading in battery recycling initiatives, particularly for electric vehicle (EV) and consumer batteries, through legislation, extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws, funding, and high participation rates.
States Leading in Battery Recycling Initiatives
California and Washington
Both states have enacted extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws specifically for batteries, shifting the recycling responsibility from consumers to manufacturers. Washington’s Department of Ecology is actively working with stakeholders to develop best practices for EV battery recycling, with a report due in late 2023.
Both states also rank in the top 10 for consumer battery recycling participation.
Minnesota and New York
Minnesota and New York have set standards for battery manufacturers and retailers. New York has also established safety requirements and disposal best practices for waste handlers at both local and state levels.
New York is among the states receiving funding to enhance EV battery recycling infrastructure under the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law initiative, alongside Tennessee, Michigan, and others.
Vermont
Vermont leads the country in consumer battery recycling rates due to its early adoption of a producer-funded stewardship plan. Despite its small population, Vermont residents recycled significantly more batteries than expected, demonstrating strong consumer engagement.
Other Notable States
Delaware, Tennessee, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Texas are consistently listed in the top 10 states for consumer battery recycling program participation.
Tennessee, Michigan, Nevada, Wisconsin, Iowa, and Indiana are spearheading innovative EV battery recycling program modernization with federal funding support.
Four States Leading E-bike Battery Recycling
California, Minnesota, Vermont, and Washington have enacted legislation targeting e-bike battery recycling, addressing growing environmental and security concerns in that sector.
Summary Table of Leading Battery Recycling States
| State | Key Initiatives | Notable Focus |
|---|---|---|
| California | EPR laws, legislation, top 10 consumer battery recycling | EV & e-bike battery recycling |
| Washington | EPR laws, regulatory development, top 10 consumer recycling | EV & e-bike battery recycling |
| Minnesota | Standards for manufacturers & retailers, e-bike legislation | Battery standards & e-bike recycling |
| New York | Manufacturer standards, safety & disposal best practices, funding for EV battery programs | EV battery recycling infrastructure |
| Vermont | Producer-funded stewardship plan, highest consumer recycling rates | Consumer battery recycling |
| Tennessee | Top 10 in battery recycling, funding for EV recycling infrastructure | EV battery program modernization |
| Michigan | Largest funding recipient for EV battery recycling programs | EV battery recycling infrastructure |
In conclusion, California, Washington, Minnesota, New York, and Vermont are at the forefront of battery recycling efforts, supported by legislation, producer responsibility models, and strong consumer participation. Michigan, Tennessee, and other Midwest states are also investing heavily in expanding EV battery recycling infrastructure with federal funds.
Original article by NenPower, If reposted, please credit the source: https://nenpower.com/blog/are-there-any-specific-states-leading-in-battery-recycling-initiatives/
