New Take-Back Obligations for Batteries and Accumulators in Austria
Who doesn't know it: The display is cracked, the battery doesn't last an hour anymore, and the old smartphone is just lying around. Disposal has often been a headache until now. From August 18, that's a thing of the past! Because then recycling centers and retailers must accept ALL types of batteries. Yes, you heard right: Whether the battery is still in the device or already loose, whether the phone is still somewhat intact or just in pieces – they must take it back for free.
By the way, this doesn't just apply to your old phones or laptops. E-bike batteries and other old devices can also be disposed of much more easily. Imagine: You no longer have to research where and how to get rid of your electronic waste. This makes recycling centers and retailers your new best friends in the fight against electronic waste!
This applies to all new models from February 2027
From February 2027, smartphones and laptops must be built in such a way that you can change the battery yourself. Do you remember the times when you could just remove the battery cover and swap the battery? That's coming back! No more special tools, no expensive repairs that kill the warranty. Apple, Samsung, and others have just under two years to adapt their devices accordingly. This is a real game-changer news for everyone who is annoyed by the throwaway culture and wants to use their devices longer.
Battery check via QR code: Full transparency is coming!
As if that weren't enough good news, there's another innovation: Starting in August 2025, all new batteries will have a QR code printed on them. Initially, these codes will reveal basic technical details. But gradually, by 2027, it will get much more exciting! Then, through the QR code, you will learn, among other things:
- Wie lange der Akku normalerweise hält
- Wie umweltschädlich die Produktion war
- Wie viel recyceltes Material im Akku steckt.
This way, you can consciously decide which products are truly sustainable and will accompany you for a long time.
What exactly is changing?
Free return of all types of batteries: From 18.08.2025, all retailers (final distributors) must accept not only old device batteries but all types of batteries and accumulators free of charge. This includes:
- Gerätebatterien und Akkus
- Batterien für leichte Verkehrsmittel (z.B. E-Bikes, E-Scooter)
- Starterbatterien
- Industriebatterien
- Elektrofahrzeugbatterien
Conclusion: Less waste, more sustainability
In summary, the future of electronics disposal and usage looks brighter than ever! First, disposing of your old smartphones and laptops becomes super easy. And then come devices that you can use longer and repair more easily. This is good for your wallet and even better for our planet. So, start sorting your old devices – August brings the disposal revolution!
This article has been automatically translated, read the original article here.