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Which Batteries are Recyclable?

Some contain mercury, a metal element that should not be placed with trash

Post Date:01/13/2016 3:16 PM
It can be confusing to figure out which batteries we can recycle and which we can toss, safely, into the trash. Many electronic items, including mobile phones, have rechargeable batteries we never see. Continue reading to find out which batteries are which and how to manage them.

 

button-batteries

Button cell batteries like these contain mercury and are found
in hearing aids, watches and children's toys

Arlington DPW (51 Grove Street) collects all recyclable and rechargeable batteries during our regular business hours: weekdays from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM with additional evening hours on Thursdays until 7:00 PM. We also collect mobile phones and electronics with rechargeable batteries in them.

While Alkaline batteries are recyclable in theory, Arlington DPW does not collect them. Residents who wish to recycle these can do so with Batteries Plus (batteriesplus.com) in Woburn, which charges a nominal fee. 
The following guidelines for battery disposal are adapted from the Mass Department of Environmental Protection (more at www.mass.gov) and from our battery recycling partner Batteries Plus Bulbs (www.batteriesplus.com):
Description of Battery Categories
  • Alkaline batteries (AAA, AA, C, D and 9 volt). Since 1994, most types contain no added mercury, and only contain trace amounts that are not hazardous. These batteries are marked "no added mercury" or have a green tree logo. Place these in the trash.
  • Nickel-cadmium rechargeable batteries (NiCads) exist in many sizes and shapes and are marked RECHARGEABLE. Some may be built into rechargeable appliances. NiCads contain cadmium, a metal that is toxic to humans when inhaled or ingested. Do NOT dispose of in the trash. Bring to DPW for safe recycling.
  • Button batteries (small, round, silver-colored, used in watches and hearing aids): Many button batteries contain mercury, a metal that is toxic to humans when inhaled or ingested. Do NOT dispose of in the trash. Many stores selling watches or hearing aids will accept spent button batteries. Bring to DPW for safe recycling.
  • Lithium batteries (AA, C, 9 volt and button; mainly used in computers and cameras). Lithium is reactive with water, and has caused serious fires. Bring to DPW for safe recycling.
Handling batteries for Recycling
  • Store batteries in a secure, dry place out of the reach of children and pets. Button batteries can be swallowed because they are small and slippery.
  • When storing rechargeable batteries, keep them in a vented, non-metal container. Rechargeable batteries should have their terminal ends sealed with scotch or packing tape before being stored together with other rechargeable batteries.
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