Batteries pile up quickly in our homes, from remote controls to old phones, and most of us aren’t sure what to do with them. Tossing them in the trash?
Big mistake!
Many batteries contain chemicals that can leak into the environment, causing pollution. Knowing how to properly dispose of different types of batteries is crucial—not just for the planet but also for your safety. Did you know improper disposal could lead to fires?
Keep reading and learn how to handle old batteries responsibly—without the headache!
Note: GreenCitizen cannot currently accept any loose batteries not installed in electronics due to hazards associated with handling and storage.
How To Dispose of Old Batteries
Not all batteries are created equal! Each type has a unique chemical makeup, from tiny button batteries to bulky lead-acid car batteries. This means they need to be handled differently. Tossing batteries into the trash could lead to leaks, fires, and environmental hazards. Recycling is always the safer option.
Single-Use Battery Recycling
Single-use batteries are the kind you use once and then toss out, like those AA or AAA batteries in your TV remote or flashlight. They can’t be recharged, which means they end up in landfills if not recycled properly. And yes, there’s a better way to handle them!
Alkaline Battery Recycling
Alkaline batteries, commonly used in household devices like flashlights and toys, are safe for landfill disposal since they no longer contain mercury. Back in the 90s, mercury was the main component ofsingle-use batteries.
As you know, mercury is a highly toxic element and can cause severe health damage to your body. But thanks to the Mercury-Containing and Rechargeable Battery Management Act, passed in 1996, mercury had to go away.
However, recycling is a smarter choice for alkaline batteries. Their steel casings and zinc content can be recovered and reused, helping reduce waste.
While you can throw them in the trash, recycling programs like Call2Recycle and certain hardware stores (think Home Depot or Lowe’s) accept them for free. So, instead of filling up landfills, consider recycling to reduce the environmental impact—it’s an easy way to contribute!
Button Battery Recycling
Button batteries, like those found in watches or hearing aids, contain toxic materials such as mercury, making them hazardous if thrown in the trash. Although no federal law stops you from throwing it in the garbage, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends recycling button batteries.
Recycling is the better option, as the mercury, silver, and zinc inside can be recovered and reused. These batteries are small but dangerous to the environment if not disposed of properly.
Check if your local electronics stores or hazardous waste collection centers take this battery. Programs like Call2Recycle or local recycling events often accept them, ensuring their harmful materials don’t end up polluting the environment.
Lithium Battery Recycling
Single-use lithium batteries, often confused with lithium-ion batteries, are not the same. Mainly, single-use lithium batteries are found in smaller devices like cameras and calculators. Both are fire hazards if improperly disposed of, but single-use lithium batteries should never be thrown in the trash due to their chemical risks.
These batteries can be recycled to recover lithium and other materials. Drop them off at electronics stores, recycling programs, or local hazardous waste centers to ensure safe disposal.
Rechargeable Battery Recycling
Rechargeable batteries, like lithium-ion and nickel-metal hydride (NiMH), contain heavy metals like cadmium, nickel, and lithium that are harmful to the environment if not recycled.
Recycling these batteries helps recover valuable materials, reducing pollution. Devices like laptops, power tools, and smartphones often use rechargeable batteries, making proper disposal essential.
Lithium-ion Battery Recycling
Lithium-ion batteries are commonly found in smartphones, laptops, rechargeable household batteries (AAA, AA, etc.), and power tools. While powerful, they carry a significant risk of combustion if damaged or improperly handled.
Due to fire hazards and environmental risks, these batteries should never be thrown in the trash. Instead, recycle them through electronics retailers or local hazardous waste centers. Recycling helps recover materials like lithium and cobalt. Proper disposal ensures both safety and environmental sustainability.
Nickel Metal Hydride Battery Recycling
Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH) batteries are mainly found in devices like digital cameras, cordless phones, and cordless power tools. These batteries are not as common as they once were before. These are less toxic than older types but still need to be recycled as they contain heavy metals. You can’t throw them in the trash in any condition.
Many electronics stores, battery recyclers, and recycling programs accept these batteries. By recycling NiMH batteries, you’re helping reduce waste and repurpose materials like nickel that would otherwise end up in landfills.
Nickel Cadmium Battery Recycling
Nickel-Cadmium (NiCad) batteries are highly toxic due to the cadmium they contain, which can contaminate soil and water if not properly disposed of. These batteries are commonly found in cordless power tools, emergency lighting, and older electronics.
NiCad batteries should never be thrown in the trash because of their environmental risks. Instead, recycling them at electronics retailers or hazardous waste centers would be best. Proper recycling prevents contamination and recovers cadmium and nickel, reducing environmental harm.
Automotive Battery Recycling
Automotive batteries come in various forms, from standard lead-acid batteries for starting engines to larger electric vehicle battery packs. There are also smaller batteries used to power accessories like remote locks or to maintain a vehicle’s computer memory.
Regardless of type, you should never throw these car batteries in the trash. Instead, recycle these at auto shops, dealerships, and recycling centers to prevent environmental harm from lead and other toxic chemicals.
Lead Acid Battery Recycling
Lead-acid batteries contain harmful substances like lead and sulfuric acid, making them hazardous to the environment if improperly discarded. Don’t toss them in the trash—take them to auto shops, recycling centers, or hazardous waste facilities. However, use caution as they contain sulfuric acid and lead.
Many retailers that sell these batteries will recycle old ones. Recycling prevents toxic chemicals from contaminating the environment while recovering valuable materials like lead and plastic. Use Green Directory to find a recycling center or auto shop near you.
How To Prepare Batteries for Recycling
Before recycling your old batteries, it’s important to follow these steps to ensure safe handling and prevent hazards:
- Tape the Terminals: Cover the terminals with clear tape to avoid short circuits for rechargeable and lithium batteries.
- Sort by Type: Separate batteries by type—lithium-ion, alkaline, nickel-metal hydride, etc.—as recycling centers process them differently.
- Use Non-Conductive Containers: Place the batteries in a plastic or non-conductive container to prevent accidental sparks during transportation.
- Check Local Guidelines: Different areas have specific rules for battery recycling, so ensure you follow them.
These simple steps will ensure safe transport and effective recycling! If you are mailing them the batteries, check for additional safety measures.
Where to Recycle Batteries?
Finding Battery Drop-Off Facilities
Finding drop-off locations for battery recycling is not that hard these days. Both municipalities and private entities are stepping up, providing spaces where you can safely hand over your used batteries.
Some might offer this service for free, while others could ask for a small fee, especially if you’re offloading a larger batch.
One of the easiest options out there is to use Green Directory from GreenCitizen. All you need to do is enter the item name (in this case, battery) and your location. Once you hit enter, the directory will offer a list of all nearby battery recycling points. It pinpoints various recycling centers around you. It’s a nifty tool, especially when I have a mix of batteries to discard.
A word of advice: always ring up your chosen drop-off point.
Some websites might not always be updated in real time. Plus, some centers have unique prep requirements for batteries, whether sorting them based on their chemical makeup or bagging them up.
Being prepared just smoothens the whole process.
Mailing In Your Dead Batteries
I’ve always believed in convenience, especially when it comes to sustainability. If you’re like me who favor the mail-in approach, there are some great options out there.
I’ve seen a common trend among these battery recycling solutions.
In most cases, they’ll sell you a recycling package. Basically, you’ll put dead batteries in these boxes, and once they’re full, you can mail them back.
Cirba Solutions is the industry leader in battery recycling.
Previously, Big Green Box from Retriev Technologies and Battery Solutions were my favorite options. Now, these two companies, along with sixty others, have merged together and offering battery recycling options.
By the way, you should contact the recyclers beforehand and discuss the packaging instructions with them. You need to ensure the batteries don’t catch fire or cause any accidents.
What NOT to Do With Old Batteries
When disposing of old batteries, some mistakes can be dangerous for both you and the environment.
- Don’t Throw Them in the Trash: Batteries contain chemicals that can leach into landfills, contaminating the soil and water supply.
- Never Toss Them in Fire or Extreme Heat: This can cause explosions or fires due to the volatile chemicals inside.
- Don’t Recharge Non-Rechargeable Batteries: Trying to recharge a non-rechargeable battery can cause overheating, leaks, or battery failure.
- Don’t Leave Them Loose: Uncovered terminals can short-circuit, leading to sparks or fire.
- Avoid Mixing Different Battery Types: Keep battery types separate to avoid chemical reactions.
Why Should You Bother Recycling Batteries?
- Prevent Groundwater Contamination: Batteries contain harmful materials like mercury and lead, which can leach into groundwater if left in landfills. This contamination can harm both ecosystems and drinking water supplies.
- Reduce Pollution: Toxic chemicals in improperly disposed batteries can release pollutants into the air, soil, and water, leading to long-term environmental damage. Recycling minimizes these risks.
- Conserve Resources: In 2018 alone, 2.5 million tons of nonferrous metals, including 1.7 million tons of lead from batteries, ended up in landfills. Recycling these materials helps recover valuable metals and reduces the need for mining new ones.
- Minimize Waste: Proper recycling reduces the number of batteries ending up in landfills, easing the burden on waste management systems and preventing dangerous chemical leakage. States like California categorize discarded batteries as hazardous and ban them from being thrown in the trash. They offer myriad recycling resources, from local drop-offs to mail-in services.
- Reduce Fire Hazards: Batteries, especially lithium-ion ones, can spark and cause fires if not disposed of properly. Recycling ensures they’re handled safely, reducing fire risks in landfills and homes.
Recycling batteries benefits both the environment and public safety, making it a critical responsibility for everyone.
