Can I Recycle That? - Home and Energy

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation sent this bulletin on 07/10/2018 11:41 AM EDT
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Can I Recycle That? - Home and Energy

can i recycle that

 

Have you ever had an item in your hand and asked yourself "Can I Recycle That?" Although recycling is more commonplace today, it can feel confusing because we are inundated with so many different types of materials and packaging.

In a recent issue of DEC Delivers, we asked you to send us your recycling questions. In DEC's series "Can I Recycle That?" we answer some of these frequently asked questions about correct recycling practices regarding home and energy. Look out for future issues with more answers to your recycling questions!

Q: Can I recycle batteries?

A: There are several types of batteries that each need to be handled in different ways.

Rechargeable Batteries: Rechargeable batteries are used in items like power tools and cell phones. Under the NYS Rechargeable Battery Act, it is illegal to dispose of rechargeable batteries in the trash. Individuals can recycle rechargeable batteries at most retail locations that sell them. 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 Act include:

  • Ni-Cd
  • Sealed lead
  • Li-ion
  • Ni-MH
  • Any other dry cell battery capable of being recharged
  • Battery packs containing any of the previously mentioned batteries.

You can also check with your municipality or local recycling coordinator to see if they are offering any special programs in your area.

Single-use Batteries: Single-use batteries such as alkaline and lithium are used in items like flashlights. 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 they offer any special programs in your area. Otherwise, non-rechargeable, single-use batteries may be put in your regular household trash.

Lead-acid Batteries: Lead-acid batteries are used for example, in motorized vehicles. As is the case with rechargeable batteries, it is illegal to dispose of these batteries in your trash. Under the Lead-Acid Battery Recycling Law, retailers who sell lead-acid batteries are required by law to accept, free of charge, up to two used batteries per month from any individual for recycling.

Remember that, no matter the type of battery, it should never go in your curbside or household recycling. You can also reduce waste by choosing quality rechargeable batteries. Learn more about battery recycling information.

Q: Can I recycle light bulbs?

A: There are many different types of light bulbs, and special recycling programs exist for some, such as compact fluorescent lightbulbs or CFLs. Currently, there are no recycling outlets for regular incandescent light bulbs or LED light bulbs, and they should be properly disposed of in the trash. Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs (CFLs) and other fluorescent light bulbs can be recycled at special locations, or check with your county or municipality for Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) events that will accept CFLs or other fluorescent light bulbs. No light bulb should ever go in your curbside recycling bin or regular household recycling.

Q: Can I recycle small electronic devices?

A: Small electronics (including any cable, cord, or wiring accompanying the small electronic equipment) include;

  • VCRs
  • Digital video recorders (DVRs)
  • Portable digital music players
  • DVD players (including projectors with DVD player capabilities intended for home use)
  • Digital converter boxes
  • Cable or satellite receivers (including digital media receivers)
  • Electronic or video game consoles (including both handheld devices and those intended for use with a video display device)

Small electronic devices are one of several types of electronic equipment covered under NYS's Electronic Equipment Recycling and Reuse Act. Individuals are encouraged to follow the consumer guidelines and information regarding manufacturer take back programs to recycle their electronic waste.

No matter the size of the electronic device, it should not be placed in with your household recycling. If your device has not reached the end of its useful life and simply needs repair, you can consider bringing it to your local Repair Café to have a repair coach fix it for you and teach you about electronics repair!

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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