Reduce, Reuse, Recharge

Rechargeable batteries help make our world go round. From powering some of our most frequently used electronic devices to cordless power tools, rechargeable batteries are all around us in our daily lives. Types of rechargeable batteries include nickel-cadmium (Ni-Cd), lithium-ion (Li-ion) and nickel metal hydride (Ni-MH). Did you know that not only can rechargeable batteries be recycled, but that it is illegal to dispose of rechargeable batteries in the trash? It’s important to properly recycle rechargeable batteries because most contain toxic metals that can be released into the environment when improperly disposed. Since the inception of the NYS Rechargeable Battery Recycling Law, consumers across the state have been able to safely and conveniently recycle rechargeable batteries at the end of their useful life.

How Do I Recycle My Rechargeable Batteries?

For individuals: Under the NYS Rechargeable Battery Law, rechargeable batteries can be recycled at most retail locations that sell them, and retailers are required to provide signage and collection containers in easily accessible locations. Consumers are encouraged to utilize these take-back programs and may recycle up to 10 batteries per day without purchase or as many batteries as purchased from the retailer. Types of rechargeable batteries covered by the NYS Rechargeable Battery Law include Ni-Cd, sealed lead, Li-ion, Ni-MH, any other such dry cell battery capable of being recharged and battery packs containing any of the previously mentioned batteries. You can also check with your municipality or local recycling coordinator to see if any special programs are being offered in your area.

For organizations/businesses: Like consumers, organizations and businesses are prohibited from disposing their rechargeable batteries in the trash. Organizations and businesses should work with a company that offers responsible recycling of rechargeable batteries. Generally, these programs allow for the purchase of a box to collect used batteries and then the box can be mailed back to the company for recycling. You can also check with your municipality or local recycling coordinator to see if any special programs are being offered in your area. Please be sure to follow all safety information provided with the box.

What Types Of Rechargeable Batteries Are Not Accepted At Required Retail Locations?

Any of the above mentioned batteries weighing 25 pounds or more; batteries used as the principal power source for a vehicle, such as an automobile, boat or golf cart; batteries used for storing electricity generated by an alternative power source, such as solar or wind-driven generators; and any non-rechargeable batteries, such as common household alkaline batteries are not accepted.

What About Non-Rechargeable Batteries?

For individuals: Currently, New York State does not have a mandated take-back recycling program for non-rechargeable batteries. Consumers can inquire with their local municipality or local recycling coordinator to see if any special programs are being offered in their area. Otherwise, non-rechargeable, single-use batteries may be put in your regular household trash.

For organizations/businesses: As with rechargeable batteries, companies offer programs that can be used by organizations and businesses that want to purchase a box to recycle non-rechargeable batteries. Please be sure to follow all safety information provided with the box.

Remember, safety is key for rechargeable battery recycling!

Resources

• Have questions about rechargeable battery recycling? Send us an e-mail at ewaste@dec.ny.gov.
• Interested in educating others in your workplace about the secret life of batteries? Visit Call2Recycle for a free downloadable infographic post.

Funding Opportunities

• Due June 30, 2018: USCC Young Investigator Scholarship

Upcoming Events

May

• May 18, 2018: Pre-Order Rain Barrel and Compost Bin - Orange County
• May 19, 2018: Fun with Fungi: Mycoculture Using Compost - NYC
• May 25, 2018: Pre-Order Rain Barrel and Compost Bin - Erie County

June

• June 2, 2018: Dare to Repair Café - Buffalo
• June 2, 2018: Household Hazardous Waste Collection - Erie County
• June 7, 2018: Re-Thinking Our Waste Workshop - Schenectady
• June 9, 2018: Shredding, Clothing Recycling and Bike Donation - Buffalo
• June 16, 2018: Repair Café - Saratoga
• June 20,2018: Pre-Order Compost Bin & Bucket - Schenectady

July

• July 28, 2018: Compost Fair & Education Day - Schenectady
• July 28, 2018: Vermicomposting for Beginners Workshop - Schenectady
• July 28, 2018: Bokashi Composting Workshop - Schenectady

We Want To Hear From You!

Is there a topic you'd like to learn more about? Or a public event or workshop related to recycling (organics, textiles, traditional recyclables, etc.) you'd like the greater community to know about? E-mail us at organicrecycling@dec.ny.gov.