Licenses required for lead acid battery recycling in India
Lead acid battery recycling in India is critical due to the environmental and health hazards associated with lead exposure. The recycling of lead acid batteries is governed by various regulations and requires several licenses and permits to ensure compliance with environmental and safety standards. In this blog, we will explore the licenses and permits that are necessary for lead acid battery recycling in India.
Environmental Clearance:
One of India's primary licenses required for lead acid battery recycling is environmental clearance from the State Pollution Control Board (SPCB) or Pollution Control Committee (PCC) of the respective state. The purpose of obtaining environmental clearance is to ensure that the recycling facility complies with environmental norms and regulations.
To obtain environmental clearance, the recycling unit needs to submit an Environmental Impact Assessment or EIA report, which assesses the potential environmental impact of the recycling process. The report should detail measures to mitigate adverse environmental effects, such as air and water pollution, and ensure proper waste management.
Consent to Operate (CTO):
A Consent to Operate is another crucial permit required for lead acid battery recycling facilities. It is issued by the State Pollution Control Board or Pollution Control Committee and authorises the operation of the recycling plant. The applicant must demonstrate compliance with pollution control norms and regulations to obtain this consent.
Authorisation under Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) (HOWM) Rules, 2016:
The Hazardous & Other Wastes (Management & Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016, regulate the handling, transportation, and disposal of hazardous waste in India. Lead acid batteries are categorised as hazardous waste due to their lead content. Recycling units must obtain authorisation to collect, transport, and process lead acid batteries under these rules.
To obtain authorisation, the recycling facility must submit an application to the respective State Pollution Control Board or Pollution Control Committee. The application should include details of the recycling process, storage facilities, and waste management plans.
Registration under Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001:
The Batteries (Management and Handling) Rules, 2001, govern the management, handling, and recycling of batteries in India, including lead acid batteries. Recycling units are required to register with the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) or the State Pollution Control Board/Pollution Control Committee, depending on their location.
Registration involves providing information about the recycling facility's infrastructure, processes, and waste management practices. It is essential for tracking and monitoring battery recycling activities.
EPR under Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022
Introduced recently, the Battery Waste Management Rules, 2022, declare the EPR for Producer, Importer and Brand Owner (PIBO) .
License from the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEF&CC):
In addition to obtaining permits from the state authorities, lead acid battery recycling facilities may need to seek a license from the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEF&CC) for certain activities with a potential environmental impact. This step ensures compliance with national environmental standards.
Authorisation from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB):
Lead acid battery recycling units may require authorisation from the CPCB for handling hazardous waste under the Hazardous & Other Wastes (Management and Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016. The CPCB ensures that recycling facilities adhere to national-level environmental regulations.
Pollution Under Control (PUC) Certificate for Vehicles:
Recycling units often use vehicles for transporting lead-acid batteries to and from the facility. These vehicles must have valid PUC certificates, which indicate that they meet the prescribed emission standards. Authorised testing centres issue PUC certificates, which are essential to ensure that transportation does not contribute to air pollution.
License for Storage of Hazardous Waste:
Lead acid batteries, being hazardous waste, require proper storage facilities. Recycling facilities must obtain a license or permission to store hazardous waste from the relevant state authority. The storage facility should comply with safety and environmental guidelines to prevent leaks or contamination.
Consent for Water and Air Pollution Control:
Besides the general consent to operate (CTO), lead acid battery recycling units may need specific consent for water and air pollution control. These consents are issued by the State Pollution Control Board or Pollution Control Committee and ensure that the facility's emissions and effluents meet prescribed standards.
Import/Export License (if applicable):
Lead acid batteries and their components can be imported or exported for recycling purposes. Recycling units engaged in international trade of these materials must obtain the necessary import and export licenses as per the Customs and Central Excise regulations.
Compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Standards:
Lead acid battery recycling involves handling toxic substances like lead and acid, which can pose serious health risks to workers. Therefore, recycling units must comply with occupational safety and health standards prescribed by relevant authorities. This includes providing protective gear, conducting regular health check-ups for employees, and maintaining a safe working environment.
Compliance with Labor Laws:
Recycling facilities must also adhere to labour laws and regulations, including minimum wage requirements, working hours, and employee benefits. Compliance with these laws ensures fair and ethical treatment of workers in the recycling industry.
Fire Safety and Building Regulations:
To ensure the safety of the recycling facility and its personnel, compliance with fire safety and building regulations is essential. Obtaining the necessary fire safety permits and adhering to building codes helps prevent accidents and protects the environment.
Registration under Goods and Services Tax (GST):
Lead acid battery recycling units are subject to Goods and Services Tax (GST) in India. They must register for GST and comply with tax regulations related to their business operations.
Other Local Permits and Licenses:
Depending on the location and specific operations of a lead acid battery recycling facility, there may be additional local permits and licenses required. These could include municipal permits, zoning clearances, and more, which vary from one jurisdiction to another.
It's important to note that the regulatory landscape for lead acid battery recycling in India may evolve over time, so recycling units should stay updated with the latest regulations and requirements. Non-compliance with these regulations can yield penalties, legal actions, and damage to the environment and public health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, lead acid battery recycling in India is subject to various licenses and permits to ensure environmental protection, occupational safety, and compliance with waste management regulations. Recycling units must navigate a complex regulatory framework to operate legally and responsibly in the country, prioritising the health of their workers and the environment.
