Batteries are a hot topic lately in the waste world. In Michigan alone, we sell over twelve thousand tons of batteries each year. Over ten thousand of those tons end up in our landfills. Batteries are made of valuable, non-renewable resources. Improving our battery recycling systems could lead to many benefits. We would gain access to critical minerals. Improvements would help prevent contamination of our water and soil. We could also improve the safety of workers in waste management.
The good news is that we can all play a part in achieving the results of these improvements. A key to safeguarding our resources and our environment is proper battery recycling.
How to Properly Recycle Batteries
Batteries should never be tossed into your regular trash or curbside recycling bin. Improper disposal is a serious fire hazard, particularly with lithium-ion batteries.
You can recycle your batteries with the Van Buren Conservation District. Check out our Recycling Guide to find the most convenient of our 11 battery drop -off locations for you!
Safety First: Preventing Battery Fires
To prevent the dangerous battery fires that harm workers and facilities:
- Tape the Terminals or Bag Batteries by Type [Alkaline Batteries (AA, AAA, C, D, 9V), Lithium-ion, NiMH, etc]: Before bringing rechargeable batteries to a drop-off location, always tape the terminals (both ends) with clear packing tape or duct tape. This prevents short circuits, which can cause heat and ignition.
- Store Safely: Keep batteries in a cool, dry place away from flammable materials. Never mix old and new batteries, or different battery chemistries, in the same container.
- No Exceptions for Damaged Batteries: If a battery is bulging, leaking, or damaged, handle it with extreme care and contact your local household hazardous waste program immediately for special disposal instructions.
Make a pledge to spend a few minutes on safe battery handling and proper recycling. Be a part of reclaiming valuable materials and protecting the workers who handle them. Let’s work together to make Van Buren County a leader in safe battery management.
