An environmental analysis of the reverse supply chain of SLI batteries

An environmental analysis of the used starting, lighting and ignition (SLI) batteries sector, based on the logistics involved in the recovery process and the tools available for measuring the environmental impact of such a process, is performed in this paper. The different phases of the reverse supply chain of used batteries are analysed, and the operations and practices involved are related with the impact on the environment, using a life cycle analysis. The analysis is exemplified by using the results of a case study. In addition, the situation in different countries from a legislative point of view is presented. Finally, the results of the analysis are summarised and several important issues arising from the analysis are discussed.