Lead-Acid Battery Recycling in Selected African Settings: Status Quo and Considerations for Sector Policies

Lead exposure presents a major public health challenge in many low- and middle-income countries, and unsafe recycling of used lead-acid batteries (ULABs) is increasingly recognized as an important driver. This paper synthesizes over a decade of applied research and cooperation projects on ULAB recycling, particularly in sub-Sahara Africa. The paper specifically draws from recent assessments in Ghana, Nigeria, and Tanzania and describes collection and recycling patterns, including interlinks between informal and formal operators, plant set-ups and operational practices.

The researchers assert that collection is largely organized through informal networks that supply collected batteries to registered industrial recycling plants that commonly apply sub-standard processes. Key lead exposure pathways include manual or semi-automated battery breaking, uncontrolled electrolyte draining, insufficient capture of furnace and refining fumes, poor housekeeping and dust control, unsafe handling of filter dust, and inadequate management of lead-bearing slags. Regulatory frameworks exist and inspections occur, yet limited resources, gaps in technical specificity and capacity, and weak enforcement allow persistent non-compliance by formal plants.

Economic analysis and recent experience indicate that relatively high standard plants face higher investment and operating costs and may lose access to ULABs because low-standard operators can offer higher purchase prices. The paper concludes with policy implications focused on effective and consistent sanctions, market consolidation through stricter licensing, polluter pays principles, regional exchange, supply chain due diligence, improved monitoring, and international support that strengthens local ownership and capacities.