Germany press EU Commission for swift decision on battery deposit scheme

Austria, supported by Germany and Lithuania, has urged the European Commission at a recent EU Environment Council meeting to speed up its assessment of an EU wide battery Deposit Return Scheme (DRS). Under the EU’s new Batteries Regulation, the Commission is required to evaluate the feasibility and potential benefits of such a deposit system for batteries by the end of 2027, but the three countries want that evaluation done sooner rather than later so member states can decide whether coordinated EU action is needed. Their push reflects growing concern about an increase in lithium ion battery fires in waste management and recycling facilities. Because many portable batteries still end up in residual waste or other improper waste streams, handling at collection points and recycling plants can cause damage and ignitions. Several major fires in summer 2025 caused millions of euros in damage, posed serious safety risks for workers, and highlighted the limits of current systems. Austria, Germany and Lithuania argue that a harmonised EU level deposit system could improve collection and reduce fire risks, while also avoiding fragmentation of the internal market that might result from uncoordinated national schemes. They also want the Commission to consider other financial incentives to boost battery collection, stronger consumer education, and improved battery labelling that clearly indicates chemistry information to help safe disposal. In addition, the delegations raised the issue of liability and financing for damage caused by battery fires, suggesting that extended producer responsibility frameworks could be expanded to ensure producers help cover costs associated with these incidents. Overall, the three governments are pressing for timely clarification from Brussels on whether a Europe wide deposit scheme and other measures will be proposed to address safety, environmental and market challenges linked to battery waste