Even a battery that has lost its charge can spark. If you’re recycling an item that contains rechargeable batteries, like a cell phone or laptop, you may need to take the batteries out first and recycle them separately.
You can search for a store or recycling center in your area here: https://earth911. com/. Several chain stores that sell electronics or batteries collect lithium batteries for recycling, including the following: Best Buy Staples Lowes Home Depot
For example, they may have a special recycling bin where you can deposit batteries. They may collect the batteries on certain days, so check in advance to make sure your batteries will be collected.
You can find your local center by visiting your state or local government’s website. If your area doesn’t have a household hazardous waste center, see if your local or regional government hosts a Household Hazardous Waste Collection event. These events often occur regularly, such as annually. [4] X Research source
You may be able to mail in the battery to the manufacturer. To find a mail-in program, search online for an option that meets your needs. For example, you might try https://biggreenbox. com/ or http://www. wm. com/residential/recycle-by-mail. jsp. You may need to purchase supplies to mail in your batteries, which you can buy online from recycling sites.
If the center collects a fee, check with other collection sites to see if there is a free option in your area.
You can safely layer the tape over the ends.
If you’re leaving the bag unsealed, wrap it around the battery to fully cover the battery.
Once the batteries are bagged, they can be placed next to each other.
You can still close the box, just make sure it’s not sealed.
You can place the boxes in the same area, as long as the batteries are in separate containers.
Keep in mind some collection sites limit how many batteries you can turn in at a time, since these programs are intended for household waste. They’re more likely to limit lithium-ion batteries. For example, you may be able to turn in just 3 batteries at a time. [12] X Research source
In some cases, you may need to purchase a kit to mail in your batteries for recycling. [13] X Research source
