Anyone who places electrical appliances or batteries on the market in Germany for the first time for commercial purposes is required to register. Failure to have a valid registration number can result in substantial fines and sales bans. Online marketplaces such as Amazon and eBay strictly verify these numbers and suspend accounts in the event of violations.
The Stiftung Elektro-Altgeräte Register (Stiftung ear) was founded in 2004. On behalf of the Federal Environment Agency, it implements two key environmental laws in Germany:
- ElektroG: The German implementation of the EU WEEE Directive on waste electrical and electronic equipment.
- BattDG: The Battery Law Implementation Act, which took effect on October 7, 2025, and replaced the old Battery Act (BattG).
Why does it exist?
The goal is to establish a functioning circular economy through product responsibility. Manufacturers are to remain responsible for the entire lifecycle of their products so that electronic waste and used batteries are properly collected, recycled, and valuable raw materials are recovered.
The ear Foundation itself does not carry out recycling, but rather coordinates and monitors – the operational take-back and disposal remain the responsibility of the manufacturers.
A Quick Guide to Registering with the ear Foundation
1) Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE)
- Who: Manufacturers, importers, and online retailers who place electronic equipment on the market in Germany for the first time
- Where: Through the official ear Foundation portal
- Process: Create an account → Specify equipment type and brand → Provide proof of an insolvency-proof guarantee for B2C equipment → Submit application
- Result: Receipt of the WEEE registration number DE, which must be provided when offering the products
2) Batteries
- Who: All parties that commercially offer batteries, rechargeable batteries, or devices with built-in batteries for the first time in Germany
- Where: Also via the ear Foundation’s portal
- Process: Set up an account → Register the appropriate battery category → Provide proof of affiliation with a take-back system or an approved Producer Responsibility Organization (PRO) to fulfill take-back obligations
- Result: Receipt of the Batt-Reg. No. and authorization for legally compliant distribution
Practical Tip
Since processing can take several weeks and incomplete applications further delay the process, it is advisable to submit your application early and carefully – preferably well in advance of the planned launch date.
Do you have any questions about registering with the ear Foundation or about authorized representatives? Please contact us!
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