Batteries and Rechargeable Batteries – Disposal and Recycling
Information on the Disposal of Batteries and Rechargeable Batteries
Batteries and rechargeable batteries must not be disposed of with household waste
Batteries and rechargeable batteries contain valuable raw materials but may also contain substances that can harm the environment and human health if disposed of improperly.
Consumers are legally required to dispose of used batteries and rechargeable batteries separately from household waste.
This also applies to batteries and rechargeable batteries used in products such as power banks, lamps and other electrical devices.
Free return of used batteries
Used batteries and rechargeable batteries can be returned free of charge to suitable collection points, including participating retailers and municipal recycling centres.
Our product range currently includes electrical devices with built-in rechargeable batteries, such as power banks. Complete devices with built-in batteries must be disposed of in accordance with the regulations for waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE).
Please refer to our information page "Electrical and Electronic Equipment – Disposal and Recycling" for further details.
For information about suitable local collection points, please contact your local authority.
Safe handling of lithium batteries
Lithium-containing batteries and rechargeable batteries, such as those used in power banks, may pose a fire risk if damaged, short-circuited or stored improperly.
Before returning loose lithium batteries or rechargeable batteries, please cover any exposed terminals with adhesive tape to prevent short circuits.
Damaged, deformed or swollen batteries should not be placed in standard battery collection containers. In such cases, please contact the staff at an appropriate collection facility.
Meaning of the crossed-out wheeled bin symbol
The crossed-out wheeled bin symbol indicates that batteries and rechargeable batteries must not be disposed of with household waste.
The following chemical symbols may appear below the crossed-out wheeled bin:
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Pb: The battery contains lead above the legally specified labelling threshold.
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Cd: The battery contains cadmium above the legally specified labelling threshold.
Protecting the environment and conserving resources
Separate collection and recycling of used batteries help recover valuable raw materials and reduce environmental pollution.
Avoid unnecessary battery consumption, use batteries and rechargeable batteries for as long as possible, and return used batteries to appropriate collection points.
Where possible, batteries and rechargeable batteries that are still functional may also be reused.
