How to Properly Dispose of Lithium Batteries

Lithium-Ion batteries are used in many different devices, but most commonly in electronics. They provide portable electricity for items such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets. They can also be found in medical equipment, electric vehicles, and power tools.

Lithium-Ion batteries can be recharged countless times, however they eventually reach the end of their life. When that time comes, the batteries must be disposed of properly to avoid negative implications on the environment.

Recycling Lithium Batteries

There are no federal regulations for disposing of lithium batteries, however in New York it is against the law for consumers to knowingly dispose of rechargeable batteries in the garbage. For this reason, it’s important to know how to properly dispose of Lithium-Ion batteries.

The contents of lithium-ion batteries are less toxic than most other batteries, which makes them easier to recycle. Still, lithium is a highly reactive element. The batteries have a flammable electrolyte and pressurized contents that could lead to them bursting into flames.

This is why batteries must be taken to an electronics recycling facility rather than put in a household recycling bin. If Lithium-Ion batteries end up in the back of a recycling truck with dry paper and cardboard, they could spark a fire. Lithium-Ion batteries are actually the most common fire starter in recycling trucks!

Here is a brief list of don’ts when it comes to recycling batteries.

• Don’t throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or household recycling bin
• Don’t puncture the batteries
• Don’t mix damaged and non-damaged batteries
• Place a large number of batteries together without proper segregation

Here are somethings you can do to help recycle batteries safely!

• Whenever possible, leave the battery inside the consumer device.  This allows the battery to be safely transported from your location.
• If the battery is no longer in the consumer device, tape the positive and negative terminals separately to prevent the battery from discharging.

To recycle the batteries, you have two options. The first is to return them to the original retailer or manufacturer as they’re required to take them back under the NYS Rechargeable Battery Recycling Act.

A better option is to schedule a pickup with ProTek Recycling! We accept Lithium-Ion batteries in addition to many other electronics and household items. If you’re a business in Manhattan, your pickup is free with any combination of 10 laptops, hard drives, or servers. Not in Manhattan? No problem! Call us today to get a free quote or to ask what our recycling minimums are to have your pick up fee waived! Once we pick up your electronics, we’ll dispose of any batteries in an environmentally friendly way, ensuring they, and your electronics, never end up in a landfill.

To schedule your pickup today, request a quote or call 844-777-6853.