Press or interested party
Read all frequently asked questions by press and other interested parties due to the merger of Stichting OPEN and Stichting Batterijen.
Why are you merging?
Because we are stronger together. In more than one way. The partnership is mainly the result of the need for a more integrated approach to the collection and recycling of batteries and electrical appliances. This will eventually lead to efficiency improvements through the integration of systems and processes, a stronger representation of producer interests and a greater influence on policy.
What does the merger look like from a legal perspective?
The short answer:
In a legal sense, it concerns a merger between Stichting OPEN and Stichting Stibat Services, which is the administrative organisation of Stichting Batterijen.
The longer answer:
Stichting OPEN and Stichting Batterijen have entered into a partnership at both the administrative and the operational level. One aspect of this partnership is the merger between Stichting OPEN and the administrative organisation of Stichting Batterijen (Stichting Stibat Services). Through the Batteries Federation, Stichting Batterijen (for importers and producers of portable batteries) and Stichting EPAC (for importers and producers of bicycle batteries) join the governance structure of Stichting OPEN.
Why are Stichting OPEN and Stibat merging?
The merger is the result of the need for a more integrated approach to the collection and recycling of batteries and electrical appliances. This will lead to a stronger representation of producer interests and a greater influence on policy.
Will anything change about the way consumers return batteries?
No, the method for returning batteries at any of our collection points will not be affected. At some point, consumers will note the discontinuation of the Stibat logo and the eventual integration of the collection points into a single ‘column’ where they can deposit both e-waste and batteries.
How will consumers be informed about the merger and its impact?
Initially, all business stakeholders are being informed. Next, consumers will be informed via our website, social media, events and at the collection points themselves.
Will the merger affect the environmental impact of battery recycling?
Yes, the merger will positively affect the environmental impact of battery recycling. The more integrated approach to the collection and processing of e-waste and empty batteries allows us to operate more efficiently and contribute even more to a healthier environment.
How can consumers contribute to the success of the new organisation?
Consumers can contribute by returning both batteries and e-waste at our collection points, which are listed on our website. We also value feedback on our services, so we can continue to improve them.
Will there be any new policy initiatives or regulatory changes following the merger?
The merger may lead to new policy initiatives, mainly because it will give the organisation a stronger voice during discussions about producer responsibility and recycling targets. Details about such initiatives will be shared when they are available.
How will this partnership affect the Netherlands’ position when it comes to recycling?
The partnership will strengthen the Netherlands’ position in terms of the recycling of e-waste and batteries because our stronger ‘apparatus’ allows us to stimulate innovation and sustainability like never before. This means we can potentially contribute to the Netherlands’ leading role within Europe when it comes to waste management and the circular economy.