Destination… Italy

BBWR Alignment Decree published

The Batteries and Batteries Waste Regulation (BBWR) alignment decree (29/2026) officially entered into force on 7 March 2026, and simultaneously repealed the previous batteries Decree (188/2008).

Transitional provisions allow continued operation under the old rules while the new system is implemented.

The decree, while maintaining the core operational structure of the existing waste batteries management regime, notably expands or deviates on the following:

Mandatory collective compliance for portable and LMT batteries

The Decree mandates collective compliance for portable batteries and batteries used in light means of transport (LMT). Individual extended producer responsibility (EPR) compliance is prohibited for these categories.

However, individual systems are still permitted for industrial, starter, lighting, ignition (SLI), and electric vehicle (EV) batteries. Furthermore, the competent authority holds the power to designate additional battery categories where individual compliance may be prohibited.

Certification requirements for individual systems

Any individual system must be recognised by the Ministry of Environment and Energy Security (MASE) within 90 days and must possess ISO 9001, ISO 14001, or EMAS certifications.

Public awareness spending by producer responsibility organisations (PROs)

PROs are required to allocate at least 3% of the previous year’s environmental contribution towards activities that promote communication, information, and public awareness.

Earlier enforcement of capacity labelling

Italy enforced battery capacity labelling requirements more than five months before the EU-mandated deadline.

Registration numbers on invoices and transport documents

Registration numbers must be included on all transport documents and commercial invoices within 30 days of their issuance. Online sellers are required to display registration numbers on their websites and communicate them to e-commerce platforms. Notably, this requirement was already mandated under Article 14 of Decree 188/2008.