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February 05.2026
3 Minutes Read

New California Fee on Nonremovable Batteries: What Manufacturers Need to Know

CalRecycle logo symbolizing California recycling fee on nonremovable batteries.

New Fee Targets Nonremovable Battery Products

Starting January 1, 2026, consumers in California will see a new 1.5% fee added to products with nonremovable batteries, such as power tools, gaming consoles, and even singing greeting cards. This charge, which caps at $15 per item, is part of an expanded recycling program aimed at making the environment safer and reducing the risk of battery-related fires.

Understanding the Fee and Its Implications for Manufacturers

This new mandate, formally known as the Covered Battery-Embedded Waste Recycling Fee, impacts manufacturers across various industries. If you produce or sell items with batteries that users can't easily remove, your products will be subjected to this fee. California’s Department of Tax and Fee Administration (CDTFA) requires retailers to register, collect, and remit this fee at the point of sale. For those who don’t pay when buying, there are methods to register and settle the fee directly with the state.

Why Is This Important Now?

The adoption of this fee comes in response to rising concerns about lithium-ion batteries—ranging from the fire risks they pose to the environmental issues linked to improper disposal. With around 7,300 tons of battery waste finding its way into landfills each year, action was overdue. As noted by Joe La Mariana, executive director of RethinkWaste, the prevalence of these batteries makes it crucial to tackle the disposal challenges they present. This situation illustrates the need for responsible manufacturing practices in California’s manufacturing landscape.

A Collective Effort to Support Recycling

Alongside the new fee, California's legislative efforts advocate improved recycling systems under Senate Bill 1215, which aims to increase awareness of recycling practices among consumers and manufacturers alike. The funds collected will help with the collection, recycling, and safe disposal of items containing hazardous materials, ensuring that manufacturers contribute to a greener future.

Exemptions and the Wider Context

While the fee covers most battery-powered products, certain devices, such as single-use nicotine devices, have been excluded due to concerns regarding the handling of hazardous substances. This highlights the balancing act legislators must perform—addressing environmental needs while considering public health and safety.

Embracing a Proactive Manufacturing Approach

As a manufacturer, understanding the implications of these new tax measures can allow you to navigate this evolving landscape effectively. The fee isn’t just a cost; it represents a shift toward environmental stewardship that all producers can embrace. By engaging with programs that promote recycling, manufacturers can not only comply with regulations but also improve their public image and potentially reduce risks linked to battery disposal.

What’s Next for California Manufacturers?

For manufacturers, this initiative offers the chance to reflect on production methods and look into ways to create more environmentally friendly products. Engaging with eco-friendly practices can lead to innovation, enhancing market competitiveness while aligning with growing consumer demand for sustainable options.

As this new recycling fee unfolds, manufacturers must stay informed and adaptable. Understanding the ramifications now can help mitigate future challenges and foster a sustainable future. Explore proactive measures in your manufacturing practices to not only comply with policies but also contribute positively to our environment.

Global Trade News Blog

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02.06.2026

Why Every Manufacturer Should Consider the Assembly Plant of the Year Award

Update Why the Assembly Plant of the Year Award Matters In the world of manufacturing, the Assembly Plant of the Year award highlights facilities that excel in efficiency and innovation. This recognition isn’t just about putting a trophy on the shelf; it’s about fostering a community that values operational excellence and supports advancement in technology and processes. Key Features of a Winning Plant The award, which invites nominations until May 1, aims to identify U.S. facilities that utilize world-class practices. Applicants should demonstrate improvements across various performance metrics: enhanced productivity, reduced production costs, and faster time-to-market. It doesn’t matter the size or type of industry; what counts is the commitment to excellence. How Nominations Work Nominations for the award are open to all assembly plants in the United States. There’s no entry fee, making it easy for any interested facility to put themselves forward. Each nomination is assessed based on strict criteria by the editorial staff at ASSEMBLY Magazine, ensuring a fair and thorough evaluation process. Looking at the Impact of Past Winners Previous winners, including notable names like John Deere and GE Appliances, showcase how effective assembly practices can lead to substantial business improvements. Their success reveals that recognizing achievements in manufacturing can elevate standards across the entire sector. Celebrating Innovation and Team Contribution While technology plays a crucial role in manufacturing, the people behind the processes are just as important. The award encourages plants to involve their operators in implementing innovative strategies, fostering teamwork and collaboration, which in turn leads to better outcomes. Future Trends for Manufacturers As the economy continues to evolve, manufacturers face challenges such as tariffs and global competition. Emphasizing enhanced assembly processes can offer American plants a competitive advantage, helping them to navigate these tough waters. By participating in awards like this, plants highlight their commitment to quality and efficiency, which can attract more business. Why Manufacturers Should Participate The Assembly Plant of the Year award not only provides recognition but also valuable insights to participating plants. The process of preparing a nomination helps organizations evaluate their performance and recognize areas for improvement. Even for plants that don’t win, the journey can fuel progress. As the May 1 deadline approaches, manufacturers are encouraged to consider submitting their entries. This recognition could lead to improved recruitment efforts and a stronger reputation within the industry. Don't miss out on this opportunity to showcase excellence in assembly!

02.06.2026

Engage Frontline Workers to Transform Maintenance with AI Insights

Update Harnessing AI for a New Era in Maintenance Management From the buzzing factory floors to the hum of sophisticated machinery, manufacturers face the ongoing challenge of maintaining operational efficiency. While many companies still rely on traditional, paper-based maintenance processes, advances in technology are opening new avenues. A digital transformation is on the horizon, spearheaded by leaders like MaintainX. Their innovative software promises to revolutionize the way maintenance tasks are handled.In "Technician Experience: The Key to Accurate Maintenance Data", the discussion dives into the effective integration of AI in maintenance management, highlighting critical insights that sparked deeper analysis on our end. Why Traditional Maintenance Falls Short For many manufacturers, effective maintenance management seems elusive. The traditional methods often lead to confusion and inaccuracies due to reliance on paperwork and outdated processes. Hugo Dozios-Caouette, CTO of MaintainX, points out that engaging frontline workers is crucial for any transition to digital methods. Failing to address workers' needs can lead to resistance and hinder the progress of digital transformation. Understanding AI's Role in Maintenance Artificial Intelligence (AI) presents manufacturers with the opportunity to automate routine tasks, improve data accuracy, and foster effective communication among teams. Dozios-Caouette emphasizes implementing AI solutions at the field level to cultivate trust. By capturing firsthand experiences, teams can optimize processes, improve asset management, and ensure compliance with industry standards. Engaging Your Frontline Workers: The Key to Success One of the major takeaways from the discussion is the importance of front-line engagement. Technicians possess invaluable insights that can significantly impact maintenance processes. By promoting a culture of open communication, manufacturers can gather critical knowledge that informs better decision-making regarding AI implementations. Start small, leveraging the input of those who work directly with the machinery, to facilitate smoother transitions toward digital solutions. The Future of Maintenance Management with MaintainX Hugo's vision for the future is not just limited to AI assistance; it encompasses a broader picture of machine connectivity. The goal is to create systems that optimize operations through seamless communication between machines and crews. Upcoming advancements will push for enhanced AI capabilities, enabling just-in-time assistance that can help technicians respond swiftly to maintenance needs. Opportunities and Challenges: A Balancing Act While the evolving landscape presents exciting opportunities, manufacturers must also remain vigilant regarding potential pitfalls. As they embrace AI and other emerging technologies, they must consider the balance between tech implementation and human expertise. Ensuring the workforce is adequately trained and feels involved in the process is vital for harnessing these advancements effectively. Take Action: Embrace Digital Transformation The insights shared by MaintainX’s CTO serve as a valuable reminder of the power of technology in streamlining processes. Manufacturers have an opportunity to revolutionize their operations. Engaging with frontline workers and incorporating AI at the beginning of digital transformation initiatives will yield long-term benefits. So, don’t let hesitation hold you back—take action now and consider how your team can embrace these advancements.

02.05.2026

AI Elevates Jobs for Gen Z: A Manufacturer's Key Insight

Update AI Transformation: An Uplifting Innovation for Gen Z As technology evolves, artificial intelligence (AI) continues to be at the forefront, reshaping industries far and wide. Particularly impactful is its influence on younger generations, especially Gen Z. Rather than disrupting their job prospects, AI is emerging as a powerful tool that can enhance opportunities and elevate jobs.In 'AI and Gen Z: Elevating Jobs, Not Replacing Them,' the video delves into the transformative potential of AI in shaping future job opportunities, particularly for Gen Z, prompting us to explore its implications for manufacturers. Understanding AI's Role in the Workplace For manufacturers, the integration of AI represents a critical evolution in their operational capabilities. AI systems can streamline production processes, manage supply chains efficiently, and offer insights that enable smarter decision-making. These advancements are proving indispensable as industries face rising demands for efficiency and responsiveness. How AI Helps Young Professionals Young professionals are increasingly entering a job market that demands technological proficiency. By embracing AI tools, Gen Z workers can augment their skill sets, making them not only more competitive but also invaluable to employers. These tools can automate mundane tasks, allowing them to focus on creative problem-solving and strategic roles that require human intuition and innovation. The Trade-Offs: Navigating Challenges and Opportunities While the benefits of AI are clear, there are challenges associated with this technological transition. Manufacturers may initially struggle with the cost of implementing AI systems, and fears exist that automation could replace some positions. However, history shows that innovation often leads to job creation in new sectors. Companies that thrive in this environment will be those that invest in their workforce, providing training and resources to adapt to new technologies. Championing an Inclusive Workforce As manufacturers navigate these changes, fostering a culture of inclusivity becomes paramount. Companies must ensure that all employees, particularly those from Gen Z, are given opportunities to learn and grow in the face of new technologies. This way, instead of viewing AI as a potential job-stealer, it can be embraced as a job creator. Future Trends: Embracing Smart Manufacturing The future landscape of manufacturing will be marked by smart technologies that combine AI with Internet of Things (IoT) devices. These advancements will foster greater collaboration between workers and machines, ensuring high levels of productivity and safety. As manufacturers prepare for these changes, Gen Z will play a crucial role in leading this transformative journey. Looking Ahead: Preparing for Industry Changes For young professionals, staying informed about trends in tariffs and global trade can provide a competitive edge. Understanding how these factors impact manufacturing can inspire Gen Z to become proactive participants in shaping the industry's future. Informed decision-making will be key as they navigate their careers amidst evolving market demands. Call to Action: Embrace Innovation If you're part of the manufacturing industry, now is the time to harness the power of AI and ensure your workforce is equipped for the future. Invest in training, stay informed about trade trends, and promote an inclusive work environment that empowers your team—including the Gen Z innovators who will lead the way.

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