The Ecotest relies on methodology based on Life Cycle Analysis, specifically looking at recycling efficiency and the CO₂ emissions of the actual process. The results of this independent Ecotest give ARN insights into the recycling claims of the processor and the energy consumption of the process itself. It enables ARN to effectively substantiate its annual reporting to the government on the achieved recycling performance.
Recycling efficiency and CO₂ footprint
The Ecotest has been developed to provide the necessary insights and is a way of mapping out the performance of battery processors, explains Janet Kes, Battery & Quality Assurance Manager at ARN. It is important for ARN to be able to use the data received from recycling companies, among others, in its annual reporting to the government. The recycling efficiency is a key factor in good reporting. Furthermore, in addition to the costs, the CO₂ footprint of a process can be taken into account in the choice of a processor. “When it comes to batteries, carrying out an Ecotest beforehand is a non-negotiable requirement for collaborating with a new processor,” she stresses.