How to properly dispose of Lithium-ion batteries

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries are used in many products such as electronics, wireless headphones, handheld power tools, small and large appliances, electric vehicles and electrical energy storage systems. If not properly managed at the end of their useful life, they can cause harm to human health or the environment.

Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries should not be thrown in the trash or recycling because they can cause fires and contaminate the environment. Instead, you can take them to a certified battery electronics recycler or a household hazardous waste collection point. You can use the New Jersey "Avoid The Spark" website or call

1-877-2-RECYCLE to find a collection site near you. Some stores that may accept lithium-ion batteries include: AT&T, Best Buy, The Home Depot, Lowe's, Office Depot, Staples, Target, and Verizon.

Why should you recycle your used batteries?

All batteries can and should be recycled. If batteries, especially lithium-based, are thrown into the garbage, they can cause a spark that could endanger individuals and surrounding property. Certain types of batteries, such as Nickel Cadmium rechargeable, can contaminate the environment if not properly disposed. Batteries are valuable and recycling them can reduce the need to mine for virgin materials along with transforming reclaimable materials into other useable products. Consumer awareness is key to changing behavior and ensuring more batteries are recycled the right way and don’t end up in landfills.

For more information on properly disposing Lithium-ion batteries, visit: www.call2recycle.org/avoid-the-spark-nj/