Uncertain where to safely dispose of toxic old batteries, people tend to conveniently dump them in their trash bins – which then end up in landfills.

To address this issue, producer responsibility organisation Circular Energy NPC and retailer Hirsch’s have joined forces to introduce dedicated household battery disposal containers at various Hirsch’s branches nationwide, beginning with the Ballito branch earlier this month.

Circular Energy CEO Patricia Schröder said the goal of the collaboration is to simplify the process of disposing of household batteries, making it convenient and promoting environmentally friendly and legally compliant e-waste recycling.

This initiative aligns with the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment’s Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Regulations, effective since May 2021.

According to the regulations, companies involved in manufacturing and/or importing electrical, electronic, lighting goods and batteries must take responsibility for the proper recycling and responsible management of products post-consumer use.

Hirsch’s founder Allan Hirsch said the initiative reflects the company’s commitment to environmental sustainability:

“The responsible disposal and recycling of e-waste and battery waste is important today. Not only do we need to keep the environment clean and healthy, but there are also employment opportunities with regards to recycling products that have previously ended up in landfills.”

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