Rechargeable batteries include some of Earth’s rarest elements. Recycling is important for these batteries, which are essential for all electronics. Learn best practices for safely recycling rechargeable batteries from the Missouri Botanical Garden’s sustainability team at the EarthWays Center.
Tips to Properly Recycle Rechargeable Batteries
A stewardship ethic and business sense in the battery industry helped enact a federal law, the Battery Act of 1996, that mandates recovery through recycling. Though collection specifics vary state-to-state, clear and simple rules apply for battery recycling everywhere. To properly recycle rechargeable batteries, make sure to:
- Place each battery in a separate plastic bag or tape over all battery terminals to prevent hazardous contact. Use clear packing tape or electrical or duct tape; other kinds of tape will come loose.
- Position an opaque tape so it doesn’t cover the chemistry abbreviation printed on the battery.
- Store all batteries in a cool, dry place.
- Conveniently recycle bagged or taped rechargeable batteries at stores near you. Battery Network lists over 20,000 locations, nationwide.
You can also recycle button batteries from things like hearing aids, flashlights and vape pens. Although they’re designed for single use, they include recoverable chemistries.
What to avoid when you recycle rechargeable batteries
Spent batteries that no longer power a device can still carry enough charge to spark a fire if terminals contact metal or other batteries. When you recycle rechargeable batteries, be sure you never:
- Dispose of rechargeable batteries in landfill trash or blue recycling bins. They can start fires in trash trucks and recycling facilities!
- Store these kinds of batteries loose together.
- Crush, dismantle or otherwise damage batteries.
Need to know what kind of battery you’re dealing with? You’ll find the chemistry abbreviation printed on the cell:
- Lithium-ion (L-ion)
- Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH)
- Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd)
- Small Sealed Lead-Acid (SSLA/Pb).
Where to recycle rechargeable batteries
Accessible, affordable services of certified eWaste recyclers make this responsibility easy for individuals and organizations. Across the St. Louis region, the Garden’s certified eWaste recycler MRC (Midwest Recycling Center) partners with municipalities, non-profits and companies to hold eWaste collection events, often alongside document shredding and paint recycling services.
What to do if a battery is swollen
Batteries are made to be safe and durable. Rarely, rechargeable batteries can swell and become a fire hazard. While uncommon, it can happen, and it can be scary.
To safely deal with this situation, first turn off your electronic device and take it into a well-ventilated area to avoid possible dangerous fumes. Remove the battery from the device. Fill a sturdy plastic bag with kitty litter or sand, put the battery in that material and seal or tie the bag.
Next, visit www.BatteryNetwork.org/safety and order the container that will safely get that battery recycled. You cannot bring a damaged, defective, or recalled (DDR) battery to the many stores that accept rechargeable batteries for recycling. Until you can properly ship it off, keep the battery bag away from sources of heat or flame. DDR rechargeables can ignite or explode!
This safety protocol applies when any rechargeable cell is punctured, swollen, leaking, or compromised by moisture or heat. Inspect a battery if you suspect damage. To see if this applies to your device, look for bumps on the service or other evidence that the cell is coming apart.
Education from Battery Network supports safe sustainability for partner companies that power our cordless mobile world. Rechargeables are engineered to operate efficiently for two to three years, aligned with today’s electronic turnover cycles. It’s likely you’ll replace a device before you change its battery.
What about single-use batteries?
Recycling is an option but not mandated for alkaline (Primary) batteries, because their chemistry isn’t defined as hazardous and their plastic and metal makeup has negligible recycling value. Pre-paid mail-in recycling or electronic drop-off events are our options to recover AA, AAA, D, C, and 9-volt single-use batteries. They are not accepted at store drop-off recycling programs.
Button batteries are not rechargeable, although they include recoverable chemistries. Button cells are also not accepted in store-chain drop-off bins, but they’re are on the long list of items welcome at electronics recycling events. A modest per-pound fee will be charged.
Additional resources
The Garden’s Green Resources Info Service is at your service to help answer all your questions about rechargeable batteries, recycling, and any question about sustainable living. Reach us at GreenResources@mobot.org or call 314-577-0246.
Jean Ponzi
Green Resources Specialist, EarthWays Center
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