Lithium batteries disposal hazards

Are lithium-ion batteries hazardous waste?

Most lithium-ion batteries on the market are likely to meet the definition of hazardous waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Most lithium-ion batteries when discarded would likely be considered ignitable and reactive hazardous wastes (carrying the waste codes D001 and D003, respectively).

Are lithium-ion batteries a fire hazard?

Proper disposal is also important because lithium-ion batteries can pose a fire hazard when handled or stored improperly. At GreenCitizen, over 95% of the exploded or bulging batteries that we get are from Apple products that use the Lithium Polymer (LiPo) style.

Should you throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash?

Remember that you should never throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash. If they end up in landfills, they can leak harmful chemicals like lithium salts and cobalt, or even start underground fires, which are difficult to control and dangerous for the environment.

Can You ship lithium batteries with a hazardous waste transporter?

EPA’s universal waste battery regulations do not mandate use of a uniform hazardous waste manifest or shipment using a hazardous waste transporter, but Department of Transportation regulations for shipping lithium batteries do apply.

Can lithium ion batteries be recycled?

Lithium-ion batteries and devices containing these batteries should NOT go in household garbage or recycling bins. Lithium-ion batteries SHOULD be taken to separate recycling or household hazardous waste collection points. To prevent fires, tape battery terminals and/or place lithium-ion batteries in separate plastic bags.

Are lithium-ion batteries toxic?

Before lithium-ion batteries even reach landfills, they already pose a toxic threat. When damaged, these rechargeable batteries can release fine particles—known as PM10 and PM2.5 —into the air. These tiny particles, less than 10 and 2.5 microns in size, are especially dangerous because they carry metals like arsenic, cadmium, and cobalt.