San Diego, January 5, 2026
Beginning January 1, California will implement a 1.5% recycling surcharge on products with non-removable batteries, capped at $15 per item. This fee aims to improve recycling efforts and reduce environmental hazards associated with electronic waste. Retailers will collect the fee at point of sale, with revenue directed towards enhanced recycling programs. Senate Bill 1215, signed into law in 2022, mandates this fee, which applies to various items from power tools to gaming consoles. The initiative seeks to promote responsible waste management and protect landfill environments.
California Introduces 1.5% Recycling Fee on Non-Removable Batteries
San Diego, California – Starting January 1, 2026, California consumers will incur a new 1.5% recycling surcharge, capped at $15 per product, on purchases of items containing non-removable batteries. This fee applies to a wide range of products, including power tools, gaming consoles like PlayStation, and even singing greeting cards. The initiative aims to enhance the collection, safe handling, and recycling of battery-embedded products, thereby reducing environmental hazards such as fires at recycling facilities.
Details of the Recycling Fee
The California Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery (CalRecycle) has set the “covered battery-embedded waste recycling fee” at 1.5% of the retail sales price, with a maximum charge of $15 per item. Retailers are responsible for collecting this fee at the point of sale. The revenue generated will support improved recycling programs for electronic waste, addressing concerns over hazardous materials in landfills and the risk of fires at recycling centers.
Background and Legislative Context
This fee stems from Senate Bill 1215, authored by former state Senator Josh Newman, which was signed into law in 2022. The legislation amends the Electronic Waste Recycling Act of 2003 to include nearly all battery-embedded products. As part of this initiative, CalRecycle is required to establish the consumer fee amount by October 1, 2025, ensuring retailers are prepared to collect the fee starting January 1, 2026. The funds collected will help support the state’s e-waste recycling program and cover administrative costs for CalRecycle and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control.
Impact on Consumers and Retailers
Consumers purchasing products with non-removable batteries will notice the 1.5% surcharge added to their total at checkout, capped at $15. Retailers must collect this fee and remit it to CalRecycle. While additional costs for consumers may be a concern, the initiative is designed to ensure that a broader range of electronic waste can be properly recycled. Proper disposal methods diminish environmental risks associated with improper waste management.
Industry Response
Industry stakeholders have expressed support for the fee, highlighting its role in promoting responsible recycling practices and mitigating environmental risks. Organizations like the California Product Stewardship Council recognize the importance of establishing proper collection and recycling systems to prevent hazardous materials from contaminating landfills and reducing fire risks at recycling facilities.
Conclusion
The implementation of this recycling fee marks a significant move by California to manage electronic waste responsibly. By expanding the range of covered products and establishing a dedicated funding mechanism, the state aims to enhance its recycling infrastructure while promoting environmental sustainability. As the community prepares for these changes, supporting local businesses that adhere to these regulations will play a pivotal role in fostering a healthier environment for future generations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the new recycling fee in California?
As of January 1, 2026, California consumers will pay a 1.5% recycling surcharge, capped at $15 per product, on purchases of items containing non-removable batteries. This fee applies to products such as power tools, gaming consoles like PlayStation, and singing greeting cards.
How will the recycling fee be collected?
Retailers are responsible for collecting the recycling fee at the point of sale. The fee is calculated as 1.5% of the retail sales price, with a maximum charge of $15 per item.
What products are affected by this fee?
The fee applies to products containing non-removable batteries, including power tools, gaming consoles like PlayStation, and singing greeting cards.
What is the purpose of this recycling fee?
The fee aims to enhance the collection, safe handling, and recycling of battery-embedded products, reducing environmental hazards such as fires at recycling facilities.
How will the funds from the recycling fee be used?
The revenue generated from the fee will support improved recycling programs for electronic waste, addressing concerns over hazardous materials in landfills and the risk of fires at recycling centers.
Key Features of the Recycling Fee
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Fee Percentage | 1.5% of the retail sales price |
| Maximum Fee | $15 per product |
| Effective Date | January 1, 2026 |
| Applicable Products | Items with non-removable batteries, including power tools, gaming consoles, and singing greeting cards |
| Purpose | To enhance recycling programs and reduce environmental hazards associated with electronic waste |
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