This battery contains heavy metal components. If it is not managed properly, it can cause pollution…Jakarta (ANTARA) - The Ministry of Environment and Forestry on Wednesday reiterated that electric vehicle (EV) battery waste must be handled properly to prevent pollution in the environment, especially in the groundwater.
"This battery contains heavy metal components. If it is not managed properly, it can cause pollution, especially in groundwater," director of waste reduction at the ministry, Vinda Damayanti Ansjar, informed in Jakarta.
She said that an environmental permit from the designated agency is needed to manage battery waste, which is included in the category of hazardous and toxic materials (B3).
Ansjar then emphasized that the use of B3 waste must be maximized. If it can still be reused, then it must be utilized for something useful.
"The reuse of B3 waste is being prioritized with approval from the related authority," she said.
Her party issued Decree Number 22 of 2021 to regulate the implementation of environmental licensing procedures and the authority of the provincial/district/city governments to grant them.
If producers or managers of battery waste are found negligent, they will be sanctioned with penalties laid down for environmental pollution caused by B3 waste, Ansjar said.
"The waste manager must have environmental permits and technical approval to utilize waste batteries. Permits supervision by relevant agencies will also be carried out," she added.
The decree regulates details regarding the protection and management of water quality, air quality, sea quality, control of environmental damage, and the management of B3 and non-B3 waste. It also guarantees funds for the restoration of environmental functions.
Additionally, it provides an explanation concerning environmental information systems, guidance and supervision, and the imposition of administrative sanctions. A basic understanding of the decree is emphasized in the technical guidance.
Related news: Indonesia-South Korea joint work for EV ecosystem development
Related news: EV battery factory is commitment in downstreaming: Minister
Related news: Govt aims to make Indonesia world’s largest EV battery producer
Translator: Chairul Rohman, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Azis Kurmala
Copyright © ANTARA 2023
