Die Stiftung ear

The stiftung elektro-altgeräte register (stiftung ear) is a non-profit foundation under civil law, established in 2004 by manufacturers and associations of the electrical and electronics industry. It acts as the "Joint Body" for manufacturers according to the Electrical and Electronic Equipment Act (ElektroG) and also serves as the executing authority for the Battery Act (BattG). The stiftung ear has been granted sovereign rights by the German environmental authority to ensure the competitive implementation of these laws.

The stiftung ear does not take on operational tasks such as the collection and disposal of old devices or batteries. This responsibility lies with the manufacturers and authorized representatives. However, the foundation ensures the registration and monitoring of manufacturer obligations, coordinates the collection of old devices, and ensures that legal requirements are met. It provides comprehensive information and support for manufacturers, distributors, and consumers to ensure compliance with regulations.

The main mission of the stiftung ear is to promote the environmentally friendly disposal of electrical and electronic devices as well as batteries and to ensure compliance with legal provisions. The foundation operates on a cost-covering and non-profit basis to ensure an independent and fair implementation of the laws. It places great importance on transparency, efficiency, and the promotion of sustainable resource management.

The stiftung ear is actively committed to sustainability and environmental awareness. Through initiatives like "Plan E," educational and communication materials are provided to raise awareness about the proper disposal of electrical old devices. The foundation supports projects aimed at promoting the circular economy and reducing electronic waste. Additionally, regular surveys and studies are conducted to measure the public's knowledge of e-waste disposal and to develop targeted measures to improve disposal practices.

The stiftung ear offers a variety of resources, including how-to videos and webinars, to make the obligations under ElektroG and BattG understandable. It is also able to respond to current challenges such as the fire hazard posed by lithium-ion batteries by providing appropriate informational materials. The foundation remains at the forefront of disposal and recycling technologies through continuous research and development.

Overall, the stiftung ear plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly disposal of electrical and electronic devices as well as batteries in Germany.

1. https://www.stiftung-ear.de/en/home