The Battery Stewardship Council (BSC), responsible for Australia’s official battery product stewardship scheme, has launched an industry consultation to transform and future-proof the B-cycle Scheme.
This initiative, known as B-cycle 2.0, aims to adapt the current scheme design to address market changes and the evolving risk profile of batteries.
The BSC is inviting representatives from industry, governments, and organisations to provide written feedback on the B-cycle Scheme Review Consultation Paper.
In addition to written submissions, the council is hosting in-person consultation events across Australia throughout July 2024.
The review of B-cycle comes in response to several factors recognised by the BSC:
- The need to build upon the solid foundation established since the scheme’s launch in early 2022
- Limitations of the current scheme design in achieving BSC’s mission of creating a circular economy for batteries
- Inadequate financial arrangements to address market and economic changes
- The necessity for regulation to ensure full participation and prevent free-riding
Libby Chaplin, CEO of the Battery Stewardship Council, emphasised the importance of this consultation: “As Australia’s battery landscape evolves, it’s crucial that our stewardship scheme adapts accordingly. B-cycle 2.0 represents our commitment to creating a sustainable, circular economy for batteries in Australia.”
The consultation process includes in-person events in Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney, providing stakeholders with opportunities to engage directly with the BSC team.
Written feedback on the consultation paper is due by 2 August 2024.
Following the consultation period, the BSC will refine the proposed scheme design based on industry feedback.
The final approach will require approval from the BSC Board and authorisation from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC). The launch of B-cycle 2.0 is targeted for July 2025.
This initiative aligns with Australia’s broader commitment to environmental sustainability and responsible waste management. B-cycle, as the nation’s official battery recycling scheme, plays a crucial role in ensuring that used batteries are safely managed, recycled, and repurposed.
As the consultation process unfolds, industry stakeholders and environmental advocates will be watching closely to see how B-cycle 2.0 shapes the future of battery stewardship in Australia.