Last week was Global Recycling Day – but what exactly are we celebrating?
World Recycling Day is an annual international day of action.
Its goal is to raise awareness of the importance of recycling for the environment and the global economy.
The Global Recycling Foundation already ranks it as the seventh resource, alongside water, air, coal, oil, gas, and minerals.
As in previous years, individuals, communities, and organizations were recognized this year for their contributions to resource conservation, accompanied by global collection drives, workshops, and awareness campaigns.
What exactly do large companies do?
Apple
The iPhone 15 is made with 100% recycled cobalt and rare earth metals in its battery. The Apple Trade In program allows customers to return their old devices for free. Depending on the device’s condition, customers receive a credit or the device is recycled at no cost.
IKEA
IKEA offers a buyback program through which used furniture can be exchanged for a gift card. These items are then resold at a discount to extend their useful life. Additionally, the goal is to manufacture only products by 2030 that customers can easily reuse, repair, repurpose, and ultimately recycle.
Coca-Cola
As part of its “World Without Waste” strategy, Coca-Cola is following the “One-for-One” principle: By 2030, the goal is to collect and recycle one bottle or can for every one sold. The company is also aiming for a recycled content of at least 50%.
And what does that mean for EPR compliance?
These examples show that recycling has long been a corporate strategy—not just an obligation.
In the EU and Germany, EPR regulations apply to packaging, electrical appliances, and batteries (VerpackDG, ElektroG, BattDG). But laws alone do not create a circular economy.
What matters:
- Consumers: Consistently return portable batteries, end-of-life devices, and packaging to take-back systems
- Manufacturers: Design products to be recyclable; view EPR as a competitive advantage
- Companies: Transparent material flows, increased use of recycled materials, clear return channels
A concrete example
Collection systems for portable batteries (OfH – Organization for Producer Responsibility) centralize collection efforts, measurably increase recycling rates, and help companies efficiently meet their obligations under the Battery Act (BattDG).
As an officially recognized Organization for Producer Responsibility (OfH), ECOPV-EU supports you in complying with your disposal obligations in a legally compliant manner.
Contact us for comprehensive advice on your compliance issues relating to electrical and electronic equipment, packaging, batteries, and PV panels.
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