Can lithium batteries be thrown away

What happens if a battery is thrown away?

Li-ion batteries contain some materials such as cobalt and lithium that are considered critical minerals and require energy to mine and manufacture. When a battery is thrown away, we lose those resources outright—they can never be recovered. Recycling the batteries avoids air and water pollution, as well as greenhouse gas emissions.

Should you throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash?

Remember that you should never throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash. If they end up in landfills, they can leak harmful chemicals like lithium salts and cobalt, or even start underground fires, which are difficult to control and dangerous for the environment.

How do you dispose of lithium batteries?

To dispose of lithium batteries, you'll need to take them to a recycling center, which is easy to find online. Keep batteries out of your regular recycling bin. Household batteries are recycled separately from other items. Mixing batteries in with other recyclables can result in a fire, as the battery can spark.

Where can I drop off a used lithium ion battery?

Instead, EPA recommends that all household lithium batteries be dropped off at battery collection sites (e.g., often located at electronics retailers) or household hazardous waste collection facilities for proper management. The EPA Used Lithium-Ion Batteries web page offers resources to find a battery recycling location near you.

Are lithium-ion batteries hazardous waste?

Most lithium-ion batteries on the market are likely to meet the definition of hazardous waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Most lithium-ion batteries when discarded would likely be considered ignitable and reactive hazardous wastes (carrying the waste codes D001 and D003, respectively).

Can lithium-ion batteries be recycled?

34% of Americans mistakenly believe lithium-ion batteries can be recycled in the household recycling bin. In fact, they contain hazardous materials and should never be placed in the household recycling bin. 27% think it is okay to put used lithium-ion batteries in the household trash.