Japan will make mobile battery recycling mandatory starting in fiscal 2026. Consequently, this move aims to recover rare metals and prevent fires. Moreover, mobile battery recycling will strengthen the country’s electronic waste management system and improve public safety.
In addition, the Economy, Trade and Industry Ministry and the Environment Ministry are also considering adding portable power sources, heated tobacco products, and electronic cigarette equipment to the mandatory recycling list. These items fall under a law promoting recycling of small electronic devices.
Since its enactment in 2012, the law requires authorities to retrieve rare metals from devices such as smartphones, digital cameras, and game consoles. Currently, about 60 specialized recycling companies work with municipalities to collect and process these items. Therefore, mobile battery recycling will require similar cooperation between businesses and local governments.
Meanwhile, local authorities have expressed concerns about fire risks from lithium-ion batteries, which appear in mobile batteries and other devices. Many discarded batteries are incinerated or sent to landfills, increasing the risk. To mitigate hazards, authorities plan to encourage the use of abnormality detection devices and fire extinguishing equipment. Additionally, the government will provide subsidies to help businesses install these safety systems.
Authorities will add mobile batteries, mobile phones, and heated tobacco products to a separate “specified resource-recycled products” list. As a result, manufacturers and importers must collect and recycle these items once the revision takes effect in April 2026.
Finally, experts say mandatory mobile battery recycling will reduce environmental hazards and secure a steady supply of rare metals vital for electronics and green technologies. Authorities and businesses are now exchanging opinions to finalize the rules.
Overall, this initiative reflects Japan’s broader effort to improve electronic waste management and enhance safety measures for lithium-ion batteries. Authorities expect mobile battery recycling to lower fire risks, protect public health, and support sustainable resource use.
