THE WORLD’S first zero-carbon battery collection scheme is underway in Brighton, having already collected more than two tonnes of batteries.

The Re-Volt scheme, created by Valpak, supplies battery boxes to businesses, which are collected by Zedify couriers free of charge whilst they deliver packages.

The scheme arrived in Brighton in March and has helped more than two tonnes of batteries be collected.

Valpak commercial manager James Nash said he urges businesses of all sizes to take advantage of the service.

“The expansion of the zero-carbon scheme to Brighton is proving beneficial already,” he said.

“This is a triple-win for businesses – ensuring that batteries are recycled correctly, helping businesses to reduce their carbon footprint and, importantly, making sure that enough batteries are recycled each year to allow retailers to meet their compliance obligations.”

The scheme initially launches in Cambridge and has generated more than three tonnes of batteries to date.

Following the success of the world-first scheme, London was next to welcome the zero-carbon collection service and has already collected over 10 tonnes of batteries.

Zedify national operations manager Tom Scruby said zero emission vehicles complete city centre collections more efficiently than diesel vehicles.

“Brighton companies have particularly shown an appetite for more sustainable operating methods,” he said.

“These make the city a better place to live, and also benefits the wider community.”

While collection vehicles typically tot up 298g of CO2 for every mile, Zedify’s bikes emit zero C02 and help avoid congestion.

James added: “The aim is to include battery removal as an additional service for existing delivery customers. As well as slashing emissions, the scheme helps to attract new sources of waste batteries, which drives greater volumes for recycling.”

In the UK, around 40,000 tonnes of portable batteries were sold in 2018, with only around 18,000 tonnes being recycled.