Brazil’s National Solid Waste Policy (PNRS), established under Law No. 12,305/2010, provides the legal framework for managing solid waste, including portable batteries. The policy enforces the principle of shared responsibility among manufacturers, importers, distributors, and consumers, ensuring proper disposal and recycling. Decree No. 10,240/2020 further specifies reverse logistics obligations for portable batteries, requiring sectoral agreements to formalize collection and recycling systems. These agreements, known as Termos de Compromisso, are negotiated between industry representatives and the government to establish targets, responsibilities, and operational guidelines.
The Brazilian Electrical and Electronics Industry Association (ABINEE) plays a central role in implementing these regulations. ABINEE coordinates the sectoral agreement for portable batteries, bringing together companies to fulfill collective reverse logistics obligations. The association oversees collection points, transportation logistics, and recycling partnerships, ensuring compliance with PNRS targets. A key requirement is the installation of collection points in municipalities with populations exceeding 100,000, prioritizing accessibility for consumers.
One of the major challenges in Brazil’s battery reverse logistics system is integrating the informal waste collection sector. Informal waste pickers, known as catadores, handle a significant portion of recyclable materials but often operate outside formal regulatory frameworks. ABINEE’s approach includes partnerships with cooperatives to improve collection efficiency and safety standards. However, disparities in infrastructure, payment structures, and legal recognition create barriers to full integration. For example, while cooperatives receive training and equipment, many independent catadores remain excluded due to lack of formalization.
The PNRS mandates progressive collection targets, starting with 5% of portable batteries sold in the market and increasing incrementally. Meeting these targets requires robust data reporting, which remains inconsistent due to varying participation levels among obligated companies. ABINEE’s annual reports indicate gradual progress, but gaps persist in rural and less urbanized regions where collection networks are underdeveloped.
Another challenge is consumer awareness. Despite regulations, many consumers discard portable batteries in regular waste streams due to limited understanding of reverse logistics systems. ABINEE conducts awareness campaigns, but their reach is often constrained by funding and regional disparities.
The financial mechanism for reverse logistics also presents difficulties. Companies bear the costs of collection and recycling, which can strain smaller businesses. The sectoral agreement allows for cost-sharing models, but debates continue over equitable distribution, particularly for imported products.
Environmental benefits of the PNRS framework are evident in reduced hazardous waste leakage, but full circularity remains elusive. Recycling rates for lithium-ion batteries, for instance, are still low compared to lead-acid systems due to technical and economic hurdles. ABINEE’s efforts focus on improving recycling technologies, but infrastructure limitations slow progress.
Enforcement of PNRS regulations is another area of concern. While non-compliance can result in penalties, monitoring remains inconsistent across states. Some regions lack the administrative capacity to oversee implementation, leading to uneven adherence.
The absence of overlap with automotive battery rules is intentional, as the latter fall under a separate regulatory framework. Portable batteries, defined as those used in electronics, toys, and small appliances, follow distinct handling protocols under the PNRS. This separation ensures clarity but also necessitates parallel systems for different battery types.
Future improvements depend on stronger collaboration between industry, government, and informal sectors. Standardizing data collection, expanding infrastructure, and formalizing catadores’ roles are critical steps. ABINEE’s ongoing initiatives aim to address these gaps, but systemic challenges require sustained policy support and investment.
In summary, Brazil’s PNRS provides a structured approach to portable battery reverse logistics, with ABINEE facilitating industry compliance. However, informal sector integration, consumer participation, and logistical hurdles remain significant obstacles. Addressing these issues will determine the long-term effectiveness of the system in achieving environmental and sustainability goals.