GRS drives R&D
The purpose and aim of Stiftung GRS Batterien are to improve the circular economy, to make more products recyclable, and to continue to improve the level of product responsibility on behalf of the manufacturers. Consequently, the major tasks of the foundation include research and development, giving advice as well as providing information and communications to raise awareness and improve performance of the battery collection points. Important variables in this respect are economic viability, environmental and social compatibility.
Germany intends to become a centre for research, production and recycling of battery cells
This federal government’s coalition agreement (2021-2025) stipulates that that Germany is to become a centre for the research, production and recycling of battery cells.
Core aims are to establish further cell production sites, including the recycling process in Germany as well as focussing on new generations of sustainable batteries.
A further plan of the federal government is to establish an incentive by which certain electrical appliances and hazardous lithium-ion batteries are disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner and properly returned to the circular economy. Stiftung GRS Batterien assists the federal government in this respect as it serves as a centre of expertise in terms of the circular economy and extended producer responsibility, developing and implementing targeted measures.
Improved circular economy contributes to the UN Sustainability Goals
The United Nations, too, has defined sustainability goals in its 2030 Agenda for Sustainability Development. The GRS foundation can and wishes to contribute towards achieving these goals, most notably:
- Goal 9: Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation
- Goal 11: Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable
- Goal 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns
- Goal 13: Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts
