Americans purchase nearly 3 billion dry-cell batteries every year to power radios, toys, cellular phones, watches, laptop computers, and portable power tools.
Why are some batteries a problem?
Some batteries contain toxic metals such as mercury, lead, and cadmium, which can harm human health and the environment when batteries are improperly disposed. Size alone is not the best guide — some of the tiniest batteries are the most toxic.
When incinerated, certain metals might be released into the air or can concentrate in the ash produced by the combustion process.
Disposal of batteries also wastes natural resources because recovered metals can be used to make new batteries.
See the Household Battery Fact Sheet for more information on the types of batteries and proper disposal.
Reduce waste by using rechargeable batteries
Rechargeable batteries can be recharged 500 to 1,000 times. Once they wear out, a recycling facility can take them apart to recover the metals. Although the initial cost of rechargeable batteries is higher, you will save money and reduce waste in the long run.
How do I Properly Dispose of Household Batteries?
In Minnesota it is illegal to dispose of certain rechargeable batteries in the trash.
Hennepin County accepts all types of household batteries at the county drop-off facilities and at collection sites throughout the county. Batteries are collected from households only; no batteries are accepted from businesses.
The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation lists additional drop-off sites for rechargeable batteries.
Minneapolis solid waste and recycling customers can set out household batteries on your recycling day. Place batteries in a clear plastic bag on top or inside your recycling bin.
See the A to Z How-to-Get-Rid-of-It Guide for more disposal information.
Important disposal information for rechargeable, lithium and button batteries
A depleted battery may still contain a residual charge. Place each battery into an individual plastic bag or place non-conductive tape over the battery terminals to prevent short-circuiting during storage and transport.
