What's The Safest Way To Dispose Of Lithium-Ion Batteries?

Lithium-ion batteries have become an important aspect of our everyday lives, powering everything from smartphones to important household tools. They are prime components in a whole host of gadgets, but what happens to them when they stop working? You might be tempted to toss your old tech in the garbage or leave it for your residential curbside recycling service. However, these batteries require a special kind of disposal that will mitigate any potential harm they could cause. As they contain hazardous materials, they pose a serious risk of fire or explosion and are potentially harmful to the environment if discarded improperly. Before you toss your old batteries, look to your local hardware and electronics stores, which will usually have recycling programs. 

There are a surprising number of everyday items that operate using lithium-ion batteries. Larger electronics like smartphones, laptops, wireless headphones, and tablets all rely on this type of battery, as do smaller electronics like toothbrushes, smartwatches, and power banks. All of the best power tool brands also employ lithium-ion batteries. None of these devices or their batteries should ever make it into your everyday trash — they need to be handled by specialized facilities.

There are a host of reasons why lithium-ion batteries can't be tossed in the trash. In addition to the fire risk they present, there's also the possibility that the chemicals from the batteries can seep into the ground, contaminating local water sources and posing a danger to wildlife. Under certain circumstances, they can also release toxic fumes into the air. Fortunately, there are a number of safe and accessible options to recycle your old lithium-ion batteries. Specialized recycling facilities are designed for that exact purpose, handling hazardous waste to minimize its environmental impact.

One of the easiest places to drop off your lithium-ion batteries is your local hardware store, which often has recycling programs for old electronics and batteries. The untold truth of Home Depot is that the hardware giant (and also its chief competitor Lowe's) both work with a company called Call2Recycle to offer free disposal of lithium-ion batteries and devices. There's no need for a separate trip — just bring them along on your next hardware run and place them in the proper bin. Additionally, some electronics stores allow you to drop off your old batteries for recycling. Best Buy, for example, allows you to bring in your old electronics regardless of where they were purchased and will even come and pick them up for a fee. If none of these options speak to you, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recognizes several certified electronic recyclers where you can send your old electronics and batteries. The agency also provides information on local processing locations where you can drop off your garbage.