Rechargeable Batteries
What Should I Do With It?
Rechargeable batteries of all shapes and sizes, including common AA, AAA, C, and D varieties, are legally banned from standard garbage and recycling bins due to their hazardous chemical makeup. When compressed or punctured inside waste collection trucks and sorting facilities, these batteries can easily spark, explode, or ignite fast-spreading fires that put sanitation crews in danger. Additionally, sending them to standard landfills allows corrosive materials and heavy metals to leach into the surrounding soil and water table. To dispose of them safely, cover the battery terminals with tape and drop them off at a certified hazardous waste center or a participating retail collection kiosk.
Safety First
This item contains chemicals, heavy metals, or batteries that can be dangerous. Throwing it in your regular trash can cause fires, hurt sanitation workers, or leak harmful chemicals into the environment.
Before throwing this away, see if it can be fixed up, given to a friend, or donated to a local thrift shop. Keeping items in use is the best way to stop waste before it starts!
The recycling guidelines shown here are for general reference and educational purposes. Every city and town has different rules, sorting equipment, and recycling programs.
Please check your local town website or ask your local garbage collection program to make sure you are following your neighborhood's rules.