Batteries are indispensable for the green energy transition, and allow access to clean, reliable electricity that is one of the greatest challenges in low- and middle-income countries. Throughout its full lifecycle – from procurement of raw materials to production processes, and recycling – the lead battery value chain has the potential for both harm and good. When recycled responsibly lead batteries may be the best example of a fully functioning circular economy. Recycling rates can be close to 100% of the battery’s available for collection and almost all of the waste battery is recovered to make new batteries. However, in some low and middle-income countries, improper and poorly regulated recycling of lead batteries can cause serious health risks and pollution.

In 2022, the International Lead Association (ILA), Battery Council International (BCI), Association of European Automotive and Industrial Battery Manufacturers (EUROBAT) and the Association of Battery Recyclers (ABR) launched the Lead Battery 360° program designed to promote sustainable and responsible production and material sourcing practices in the lead battery supply chain.

The program has two main objectives, namely to share knowledge of best practices in lead battery recycling with stakeholders in LMICs and intergovernmental organisations (an activity that ILA has been involved with for over 20 years) , and to allow verification of battery manufacturing, primary lead producer or battery recycling sites responsible production and sourcing practices through an independent certification scheme that was launched in June 2025.

Since June, eight sites have started their certification journey, and this number is expected to exceed ten facilities by the end of the year.