Living the Green Life

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Take "Charge" of Your Battery Disposal

Today, batteries are everywhere and power almost everything. Many contain toxic metals that can be released into the environment when improperly disposed. Therefore, it’s important to know about the different types of batteries and how to manage them post-use. Remember, batteries do not go in home recycling bins when they are no longer usable. In New York, there are different options available for the safe and environmentally responsible management of end-of-life batteries depending on which category they fall under:

Single-use batteries (examples: alkaline, zinc-carbon, button-cell, coin, lithium (Li))—may be accepted for recycling at retail and municipal locations on a voluntary basis. Use the Call2Recycle to find drop-off locations, making sure to check the box for “primary” batteries.
Rechargeable batteries (examples: Li-ion, Ni-Cd, Ni-MH)—under the NYS Rechargeable Battery Law, covered rechargeable batteries or battery packs weighing <25 lbs., can be returned to any retail location that sells rechargeable batteries or rechargeable battery containing products for recycling at no cost to the consumer. Visit the Call2Recycle locator website for acceptance locations.
Lead-acid automotive batteries—under the NYS Lead-acid Battery Recycling Law, retailers and distributors of lead-acid batteries, must accept, free of charge, up to two used batteries per month from any individual, regardless of whether or not the individual purchases a new lead-acid battery.

Note: not only is bringing your used batteries for recycling the “right” thing to do, but it is actually illegal to dispose of rechargeable batteries, including automotive batteries, in the trash.

A large green box with an opening at the top sits on a high flat surface — DEC offices use a battery recycling box to properly dispose of old batteries.

Recycle Right NY assists DEC in its outreach efforts to help ensure batteries are recycled or disposed of properly. You can find more resources and related information about batteries on the Recycle Right New York website. A helpful feature is the Recyclopedia—a guide that provides reduction, reuse, and recycling instructions for many common household items.

Other Battery-related Considerations

Storage—when storing rechargeable batteries for battery powered tools and other battery powered equipment like lawn mowers and leaf blowers, you can help the rechargeable batteries maintain proper function by storing them at room temperature in a dry area away from direct sunlight. It is also helpful to avoid storing these types of batteries in areas subject to freezing temperatures or extreme heat.

Damaged or defective batteries—pose a unique hazard and fire risk. It is recommended to treat them as Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) and drop them off at a local HHW event or facility authorized to manage them, although, retail locations in New York should be equipped to handle them as well.

Embedded rechargeable batteries—products with embedded rechargeable batteries that cannot be removed or are not easily removable, should not be returned to retail locations. Check with your local municipality or electronic waste recycler, as they may accept embedded battery products on a voluntary basis.

Battery Chargers—should not go in the trash or recycling bins. Certain auto parts retailers or electronic waste recycling facilities may accept them on a voluntary basis.
Li-ion batteries—learn how to charge safely and prevent fires (PDF)!

Did you know that?

In 2018, a total of 323 reported fires took place across the United States and Canada at materials management facilities (compliments of Recycle Right NY).
Batteries do not belong in home recycling bins.
Some batteries contain materials such as cobalt, lithium and graphite that are considered critical minerals by the United States Geological Survey. Critical minerals are raw materials that are economically and strategically important to the United States and have a high supply risk potential and for which there are no easy substitutes. Consequently, every effort should be made to recycle and recover these materials to ensure they will be available for generations to come.

Be a Friend of the Environment:

Electric options—Heat pumps, proper insulation and other items can improve your home’s energy efficiency. Looking for a new heat source before this coming winter? Consider electric options. Make choices with the environment in mind and long-term you may even find some utility bill savings as well.

Pumpkin composting—find out if there are composting options in your community if you are not already a home composter. Remember that you can save and roast the seeds to a healthy seasonal snack. You can also compost apple peels, leaves, and more.

Fall lawn tips—do not use a pesticide/fertilizer that contains phosphorus, unless:

a soil test indicates that additional phosphorus is needed for growth of that lawn or non-agricultural turf; or

a phosphorus fertilizer is used for newly established lawn or non-agricultural turf during the first growing season.

Remember, fall is the time to get lawns ready for snow and the winter season ahead.

Love Our New York Lands—fall colors yield a vibrant palette that only nature can provide—but all can enjoy—especially on a fall hike. Make sure you carry the 10 hiking essentials with you, let someone know where you are going and your anticipated time of return. Also, if you need gear consider borrowing from a friend or opting for second-hand items that are still in good condition. Carry out what you bring in and show that you Love Our New York Lands by doing so.

Seasonal equipment (small engine)—done mowing for the season? Make sure you perform any necessary maintenance in preparation for next spring. And don’t forget if you need a small new engine item—there are many electric items to choose from—such as mowers, snow blowers, and even snow shovels. Find the electric item to best serve your needs while helping our environment.

Something to cheer about—reduce, reuse, and recycle while watching your favorite high school sports team or supporting your favorite professional New York team. To do so, make sure your food and beverages are in reusable or recyclable containers. If you have bottles or cans with a deposit—be sure to return them and get your deposit back. Doing so is a win/win for our environment.

Home costume shopping—shop your closet. You will have a unique costume and be helping our environment. If you need an item or two to complete the look, borrow from a friend or visit a thrift store to promote reuse. Check out the Recycle Right New York Reuse Locator Tool. Still holding onto costumes from years passed? Have a costume swap with friends and or family. You can even make a costume out of cardboard or other recyclables. Looking for inspiration? How about dressing up like you are getting ready to go fishing or on a hike? Show your love for our environment with green and sustainable costume choices.