India's battery recycling drive hits logistics and cost barriers

ElectronicsManufacturers seek slower rollout as recovery economics remain weakFailure to process lithium battery waste through India's proper channels would see it instead pass through informal channels, whereby it would largely be incinerated or landfilled, releasing toxic elements into the environment. © Getty ImagesCHARU BAHRIJuly 27, 2026 14:44 JSTRAJASTHAN, India -- Costs and logistics issues are making it difficult for Panasonic and other companies to meet India's recycling targets for low-end batteries, thereby raising environmental concerns and hampering critical mineral sourcing.