Californian consumers have begun paying a new recycling surcharge on a wide range of electronic goods after a state-wide policy came into force at the start of the year. The charge applies to products containing non-removable lithium-ion batteries, including games consoles, power tools and novelty items.
The 1.5 per cent fee, introduced on 1 January 2026, is intended to fund the safe disposal and recycling of embedded batteries. State authorities say the measure is necessary to reduce fire risks and environmental damage linked to battery waste entering landfill sites and recycling centres.
