Colorado Battery Stewardship Act Signed into Law

The National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA) has praised the recent signing of the Colorado Battery Stewardship Act (SB25-163) by Governor Jared Polis. According to reports, the legislation, which was developed through a coalition led by Recycle Colorado and supported by NWRA, is a significant milestone in ensuring the safety of waste workers and promoting responsible recycling of valuable battery materials.

The Act establishes a statewide, producer-funded program aimed at the collection and recycling of small and medium-sized batteries. This initiative is expected to substantially reduce the risk of fires at waste and recycling facilities while also improving access to recycling services for all Colorado residents. According to sources, the program is scheduled to become operational by 2027 and will be overseen by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE). A Battery Stewardship Organization (BSO) will manage the program.

NWRA President and CEO Michael E. Hoffman commented, “This legislation is a clear example of how the public and private sectors can come together to solve pressing environmental and safety challenges.” Hoffman also highlighted NWRA’s role in supporting its members and partners in the successful passage of this law, which he described as setting a national precedent for responsible battery disposal practices.

Throughout the legislative process, NWRA worked in close coordination with Recycle Colorado and various other stakeholders to ensure the law’s effectiveness, drawing on both national expertise and regional input. The success of this collaborative effort underscores the importance of industry leadership in shaping policies that enhance both public safety and environmental sustainability.

Rachel Hering, NWRA’s Regional Vice President for the Rocky Mountain Chapter, emphasized, “This is a win for Colorado residents, the environment, and the hardworking men and women in the waste and recycling industry. The Battery Stewardship Act provides a sustainable, safety-driven solution that will reduce fire risks and improve material recovery across the state.”

Looking ahead, NWRA plans to launch a nationwide public service announcement campaign in August featuring the iconic Woodsy Owl. The campaign, which will focus on battery safety and responsible recycling, is expected to reinforce the significance of efforts like Colorado's new law on a national scale.

Source: NWRA