Saitama Prefecture begins rare metal recovery pilot test

Saitama Prefecture has begun a pilot system in Kazo City to promote urban mining through efficient recycling of rechargeable batteries. This program forms part of the “Circular Economy Promotion Subcommittee,” established within the Saitama SDGs Public-Private Partnership Platform in June 2024. The subcommittee collaborates with businesses and stakeholders to promote sustainable resource use.

The pilot program, developed in partnership with Ebara Environmental Plant Co., Ltd., aims to recover rare metals such as cobalt and nickel from used lithium-ion batteries. Dedicated collection boxes will be installed at the Marutake Kisai store in Kazo City and the FamilyMart within the prefectural government building in Saitama City. Additionally, Kazo City will utilize existing collection boxes at public facilities to collect batteries and test the recovery of rare metals.

The program addresses the growing issue of improper disposal of rechargeable batteries, which often end up as non-burnable or bulky waste. These improperly discarded batteries have caused fires during waste processing. Moreover, many small household devices like smartphones, mobile batteries, and electronic cigarettes contain rechargeable batteries with valuable rare metals that are often not recycled.

By introducing this pilot system, the prefecture seeks to reclaim these valuable resources for reuse in new batteries and other products, contributing to resource efficiency and sustainability.

Dedicated collection boxes will be set up at two key locations to ensure convenient access for residents: the Marutake Kisai Store in Kazo City and the FamilyMart Saitama Prefectural Office Store in Saitama City. The collection periods vary, with the Marutake Kisai Store accepting items from January 15 to March 31, while the FamilyMart location will operate from January 15 to February 14. Residents can dispose of rechargeable lithium-ion and nickel-metal hydride batteries, as well as products with built-in rechargeable batteries like mobile batteries and electronic or heated tobacco devices.

Kazo City will collect batteries at four additional public facilities, improving accessibility for residents. These locations include Kazo City Hall (Main Building), Kisai General Branch Office, Kitakawabe General Branch Office, and Ootone General Branch Office.