COLUMBIA, S.C. — The Battery Disposal Dilemma
Rechargeable batteries—they’re everywhere! From our trusty smartphones and tablets to the gadgets we use daily like power tools and electric toothbrushes, these compact powerhouses keep our lives buzzing. But as all batteries do, they eventually lose their spark. When that time comes, the question arises: how do we properly dispose of them?
Why Proper Disposal Matters
The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) has some eye-opening statistics that highlight why this is vital. They estimate that improperly tossed lithium-ion batteries are behind a staggering 5,000 fires at recycling facilities each year! That’s right—these little power sources might seem harmless, but they pose significant risks, especially when they end up in the trash or recycling bins.
Myra Reece, the Interim Director for SCDES, emphasizes the importance of responsible battery handling, stating, “Batteries are a routine part of our everyday lives, which is why it’s so important for everyone to understand that they need to be properly handled and recycled in order to limit the potential harm they can cause to people and the environment.”
What Happens When You Toss Batteries Incorrectly?
When you toss a lithium-ion battery into your regular household trash, it can cause a chain reaction of events that may lead to fires at recycling facilities. The increase in battery use has resulted in a rise in such incidents, which puts sanitation workers, solid waste professionals, firefighters, and others at risk. It’s a harsh reality that could easily be avoided with a little awareness and effort.
Do You Have Old Batteries? Here’s What You Can Do!
If you’re staring at a pile of old lithium-ion batteries or rechargeable devices at home or in your workshop, fear not! The SCDES has teamed up with the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) to encourage responsible recycling practices. Together, they are hosting a rechargeable battery drop-off event on Thursday, Sept. 19.
Bring your old batteries and devices to the front lobby of SCDES located at 2600 Bull St. between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. What can you drop off? You can bring in:
- Smartphones
- Tablets
- Electric toothbrushes
- Laptops
- Power tool batteries
- Rechargeable vacuum batteries
- Wireless headphones
- Any other lithium-ion batteries for recycling!
Safety Tips for Dropping Off Batteries
Before you head out the door, there are a couple of things to keep in mind:
- For loose lithium-ion or nickel-metal-hydride batteries, make sure to tape both ends of the battery to prevent any accidental mishaps.
- Remember to remove all personal data from your devices before dropping them off.
Final Thoughts
Taking the time to dispose of your rechargeable batteries responsibly not only protects people working in recycling but also helps keep our environment safe. Let’s all do our part, Columbia! Your old gadget’s battery doesn’t have to be a fire hazard—turning it in for recycling is just one simple way to make a big difference.
