To dispose of batteries correctly and safely, follow these guidelines:
- Do not throw batteries in household trash or recycling bins. Batteries contain hazardous materials and must be kept out of general waste to prevent environmental harm and fire risks
- Use designated battery recycling points. Most supermarkets, large shops, and local recycling centers offer battery collection bins where you can drop off household batteries such as AA, AAA, 9V, button cells, phone, and laptop batteries
- Tape battery terminals before disposal. For lithium-ion and other rechargeable batteries, tape the terminals with non-conductive tape or place each battery in a separate plastic bag to prevent short circuits and fire hazards during storage and transport
- Recycle or return automotive and lead-acid batteries to retailers or hazardous waste collection programs, as these require special handling
- For leaking or damaged batteries, place them in a sealed clear plastic bag before taking them to a recycling point to avoid exposure to hazardous substances
- If batteries are embedded in devices and cannot be removed, recycle the entire device through electronic waste (WEEE) recycling programs rather than disposing of it in regular waste
- Businesses must use licensed waste carriers for battery disposal and may arrange scheduled collections for safe handling and recycling
In summary, always take used batteries to dedicated recycling points such as supermarkets, local recycling centers, or hazardous waste collection events. Tape terminals of lithium and rechargeable batteries, never throw batteries in regular trash, and recycle embedded batteries via electronic waste programs
. This ensures safe handling and environmental protection.