Request for Information (RFI): Advanced Battery Circularity & Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

The Defense Logistics Agency, through the Dcso-Richmond Division 3, is conducting market research via Request for Information SP4705-27-J3-RFI-001 to evaluate the defense industrial base's capabilities regarding advanced battery circularity, end-of-life battery recovery, and critical mineral recycling. As the executive agent for hazardous waste disposal and combat logistics, the DLA is assessing how new EPA universal waste regulations and Federal Executive Orders, including EO 14057, EO 14110, and EO 14415, impact the storage, transportation, and domestic reclamation of military-grade and commercial batteries. The agency seeks detailed industry data from manufacturers and processors to understand the challenges of establishing federal return-to-producer programs and improving domestic recycling capacity at DLA depots and military bases. The scope of this inquiry focuses on Extended Producer Responsibility and the operational requirements for battery disposition. Key areas of interest include supply chain mapping, the impact of BIS export-control rules on black mass and tungsten, and compliance with prohibitions against procuring components from Foreign Entities of Concern. Respondents are asked to provide feedback on reimbursement models for producer-managed returns and the logistics and safety requirements for shipping batteries back to manufacturer facilities. This RFI is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a formal solicitation; responses must be submitted to the primary point of contact, Joshua Maradiaga, by November 19, 2026.