At Republic Services, we’re passionate about recycling and know the basics by heart:
- Know what to throw
- Empty. Clean. Dry.
- Don’t bag it
As Earth Day nears (April 22), let’s step up our game and learn about specialty recyclables that can’t be recycled through your regular curbside service – like batteries – and how to properly recycle these items.
Batteries contain harmful materials that are hazardous to people and the environment, and they should not be included with your trash or curbside recycling. Here’s what you should know about disposing of and properly recycling your old batteries:
Alkaline batteries: According to the EPA, you can throw away your alkaline and zinc-based batteries, including the standard batteries you use to power remote controls, flashlights, and more. But it is better for the environment if you find a way to recycle these batteries with an appropriate recycler instead of just tossing them in your trash.
Button batteries: These are small round batteries that are frequently found in watches and medical devices. Typically, these batteries contain lithium and can cause fires if damaged. Because of this, they shouldn’t be thrown away or recycled at your home. They require special handling.
Lithium batteries and lithium-ion batteries: Lithium batteries, the most popular kind of rechargeable battery found in electronic devices, are hazardous as they can spark a fire if damaged or stored improperly. These batteries MUST be recycled with a battery recycler and should never be disposed of at home.
Rechargeable batteries: Rechargeable batteries and devices with rechargeable batteries should always be recycled. If the battery is removable and rechargeable, it can be recycled on its own. If the battery isn’t removable, the entire device needs to be recycled through an electronic waste program.
Source: https://www.republicservices.com/blog/what-you-need-to-know-about-recycling-old-batteries