Batteries


As a practical matter, all batteries regardless of type or manufacturer should be recycled.  All batteries are potentially dangerous if mishandled. To prevent injury, follow all manufacturers’ instructions as printed on the product packaging.

A spent battery is classified as a hazardous waste if it exceeds the regulatory criteria for ignitability, corrosivity, reactivity, or toxicity. Several categories of batteries typically exceed hazardous waste criteria for corrosivity, toxicity (due to heavy metal content), or reactivity. A determination as to whether a specific battery is a hazardous waste when discarded cannot be made without referring to the manufacturers' information or test results for that battery.


DEFINITION:  A "Battery" means a device consisting of one or more electrically connected electrochemical cells, which is designed to receive, store, and deliver electric energy.  An electrochemical cell is a system consisting of an anode, cathode, and an electrolyte, plus such connections (electrical and mechanical) as may be needed to allow the cell to deliver or receive electrical energy. The term battery also includes an intact, unbroken battery from which the electrolyte has been removed.

Hazardous Waste Batteries are not eligible for regulation as universal waste. An example of a hazardous waste battery is an automotive-type lead acid storage battery.

Universal waste and non-hazardous waste batteries include both Non-rechargeable Batteries  and Rechargeable Batteries

Hazardous waste batteries, except for automotive-type lead acid storage batteries, are regulated as Universal Waste.  Universal waste batteries may be handled, transported and recycled according to the less stringent regulations governing universal waste.  After February 8, 2006, all universal waste batteries in California, including those generated by households, required recycling. Do not place Universal Waste batteries in the regular trash.

Batteries of the same type and appearance may differ significantly between manufacturers. Refer to the manufacturers' packaging or websites for further information.

Selection of the proper battery for a given application should be based upon the manufacturers' specifications.  When possible, rechargeable batteries should be used. Carefully follow all manufacturers' instructions for recharging to avoid injury and ensure maximum battery life.



Please refer to Universal Waste for detailed information on how households, businesses and institutions can recycle used batteries.