Exide Introduces Scrap Battery Scheme

Exide Technologies has introduced a new scheme which goes by the name of SCRAPS (Scrap Collection, Recycling and Protection Scheme) and which is designed to offer a hassle-free collection, disposal and recycling service at an affordable price. The scheme not only aims to ensure the safe disposal of waste batteries, but also safeguards customers against legal action.

Current legislation covering the disposal of hazardous waste – which includes batteries – coupled with tougher enforcement by the Environment Agency, means anyone caught contravening the rules is liable to a fine of up to £50,000 or five years’ imprisonment.

The Exide scheme is run in conjunction with G&P Batteries; the UK’s largest collector of waste batteries, and is endorsed by the Woodland Trust, the leading woodland conservation charity. SCRAPS offers a choice of services; the Basic plan covers the rental of a standard container and lid, delivery and container collection service, year-long registration with the EA, the production of EA-compliant consignment notes and quarterly EA waste return reports.

The Flexi plan offers a more bespoke service, which includes a national or regional collection service for multi-branch sites and the provision of multi-bins and multiple collections with set order lead times.

Craig Everett, Exide UK’s marketing manager, explained why the company had introduced SCRAPS, saying: “Legal and safety issues surrounding the disposal of waste lead acid batteries are not only becoming more time consuming and expensive, but also present a growing administrative burden for customers. SCRAPS offers a professional service at a subsidised price thanks to Exide’s partnership with G&P Batteries. It is a simple, peace of mind solution to the complexity of legislation which now governs the storage, transportation and disposal of waste batteries.”