How to Dispose of Batteries

Batteries help us power our devices needed in business, school and home, but they eventually die out. Some batteries end up recycled while others need proper disposal due to environmental concerns arising from their toxic metals--nickel cadmium, mercury, alkaline, lead acid and nickel metal hydride. Dispose batteries properly for personal safety and a clean environment.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic bags
• Hand protection

Instructions

1. Go to the environmental resource website earth911.org (see Resources below). The site remains the nation's premier environmental resource headquarters and lists all hazardous waste drop-off locations.

2. Enter the word "battery" and your zip code, city or state in the dialog box.

3. Choose a center near you to dispose your batteries safely. See the name, address and telephone numbers listed.

4. Click on a location's name and view the items they accept. Call for special information pertaining to handling particular types of batteries.

5. Remove weak or dead batteries from their casing.

6. Place each battery in a separate re-sealable plastic bag. If corroded wear protection for your hands.

7. Take the batteries to your local hazardous waste drop-off location.

Tips & Warnings

• Contact your local city government for further instructions on battery disposal. Some areas maintain a special drop-off location or pick-up day through a waste management company. Many cities offer a recycle drop-off box at the city hall or Department of Public Service.

• Some municipalities allow certain alkaline batteries to be disposed in your regular trash. Ask the city about this as it varies.

• Call your local automotive store or any battery sales outlet to see if they accept dead car batteries.

• Never leave dead or weak batteries in the same bag or container. These might contain a small amount of power and ignite when contacted.

Resources

• See the Find a Recycling Center for disposal locations near you at earth911 website.