- Lithium ion batteries are not yet classified as hazardous waste by the United States Government, but there are many reasons to recycle these batteries rather than throw them away where they may end up in a regular landfill. Exposure to the elements in these batteries can lead to respiratory problems and, in some cases, skin rashes. In many states, it is illegal to throw away lithium ion batteries. This is because they enter the solid waste stream and contaminate soil and water. In addition, if this kind of battery is subjected to high temperatures, it may explode.
- In the United States, there are a large number of recycling centers available all over the country. To locate a center near you, you can call 1-800-8-BATTERY or 1-877-2-RECYCLE. People can also visit http://www.ehso.com/ehso.php?URL=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.rbrc.org/consumer/index.html and use the recycling center locater on the website. There are a number of companies that have signed up to be battery recycling collection centers so bringing the battery to any franchise of these companies will be sufficient. The list of companies includes Alltel, AT&T, Best Buy, Black & Decker, DeWalt, The Home Depot, Interstate All Battery Centers, Lowe's, Milwaukee Electrical Tool, Office Depot, Orchard Supply, Porter Cable Service Centers, RadioShack, Remington Product Company, Sears, Staples, Target, US Cellular and Verizon Wireless.
- The collected batteries are sent to recycling facilites where the materials that make up the battery are separated. These materials include cadmium, nickel, cobalt, iron and lead. These materials are then crafted into new products including stainless steel and new batteries. According to the organization Call 2 Recycle, the Environmental Protection Agency has agreed that this is the best demonstrated available technology.
