National Ministry of Environment Initiatives

The National Ministry of Environment has taken a significant step to promote Circular Economy efforts by implementing Integral Management Systems for specific waste streams derived from Household Waste. To achieve this, a special waste stream termed REGU (Residuo Especial de Generación Universal) has been defined as Special Waste of Universal Generation, which includes streams with hazardous characteristics, pursuant to Resolution 522/2016.

Battery Industry Collaboration

In line with these efforts, the Battery Industry has been actively working for nearly a year to implement a National Battery Stewardship Program (PROGIPA). This program is grounded in the innovative notion of “Shared Responsibility”, wherein national and provincial governments, alongside the private sector, equally share both operational and financial responsibilities (50-50) for the collection, recycling, and final disposal of primary and secondary batteries for domestic use.

Launch Expectations

The PROGIPA initiative is anticipated to be launched at the beginning of 2018, targeting the collection of primary and secondary AA, AAA, C, D, 9V, and button cell batteries across all chemistries.

All other geometries are also included in the scope of the program.