The federal government of Nigeria has taken a significant step towards promoting Environmental Sustainability and Public Health by implementing new regulations to oversee the handling and usage of batteries across the country. The Battery Control Regulation, announced in Abuja on August 29, 2024, highlights the nation’s dedication to encouraging responsible consumption and proper management of batteries from creation to disposal. This rule tackles the increasing worries surrounding power unit use, specifically the environmental and health dangers when batteries are incorrectly handled.
Also, the National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), with the support of the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP) and backing from the European Union, is leading a campaign to address the risks associated with accumulator waste. This effort covers a wide range of cell types, including those used in Renewable Energy systems that are becoming more popular in the country to improve energy availability in marginalised regions. At the launch event, Dr. Innocent Barikor, NESREA’s Director General, stressed the importance of guidelines by pointing out the deficiencies in enforcing environmental rules concerning cell usage.
Increased renewable energy use drives battery consumption nationwide.
He noted that the absence of specific Legislation had allowed the improper management of used lead-acid batteries (ULABs), leading to severe health risks. Exposure to lead, mercury, cadmium, and Lithium threatens essential body functions, such as the nervous and circulatory systems. Dr. Barikor hopes the new policy will effectively tackle the issues, especially in protecting vulnerable groups like women and children who bear the risk of hazardous cell waste management. However, the Regulation is anticipated to aid the nation’s handling of electric cell waste.
As the country experiences a rise in battery usage due to the growing implementation of renewable energy options like solar home systems and mini-grids, effective Waste Management practices are becoming increasingly important. These solutions are crucial for enhancing energy access, but they also come with the challenge of managing the resulting increase in cell waste in an environmentally friendly manner. The new rule addresses deficiencies and encourages environmentally friendly methods throughout its lifecycle, including manufacturing, recycling, and proper disposal.
Regulation of renewable energy will boost economic growth.
Balarabe Lawal, the Minister of Environment in Nigeria, emphasised the significance of the updated policies by condemning the haphazard dumping of cell waste in unauthorised locations. He warned that this behaviour could result in severe environmental disturbances if not addressed promptly, likening it to potential disruptions waiting to happen. The minister emphasised the importance of adhering to international environmental agreements like the Bamako Convention. This convention requires safe management, recycling, and disposal of dangerous African waste. The country aims to protect its environment and people from the negative impacts of cell waste by harmonising its domestic standards with global norms.
Furthermore, the government aims to enhance the region’s Economic Development by regulating renewable energy projects. By implementing standardised and Eco-friendly methods for managing battery waste, they aim to attract more investments in renewable energy, stimulating the Economy and protecting public health and the environment. The Head of Programme at NESP, Duke Benjamin, stressed the importance of a recent regulatory achievement to minimise the emission of harmful chemicals into the air. He underscored the necessity of active participation from stakeholders to effectively enforce the regulation, emphasising the pivotal roles that different entities within the battery industry must play for its success.
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Benjamin emphasised NESP’s dedication to assisting NESREA and battery Recycling facilities with technical support and capacity building to ensure the implementation and longevity of the new guidelines. Introducing the policy is a significant turning point in the country’s environmental policies. Tackling the issues related to battery waste is paving the way for a more sustainable and health-oriented method of handling a vital aspect of the nation’s energy infrastructure. As the country continues to pursue its goal of providing a healthy and sustainable standard of living for all citizens, this regulation will be instrumental in achieving a cleaner and safer environment for future generations.