Proper Disposal of Rechargeable Batteries Critical to Prevent Fires and Protect Environment

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A Growing Concern for Our Environment

Rechargeable batteries are everywhere these days, aren’t they? If you take a moment to look around, you’ll see them nestled in our smartphones, tablets, power tools, and even our trusty electronic toothbrushes. However, there’s something crucial we need to talk about, and that’s what happens when these batteries lose their charge. After a while, they simply don’t hold a charge any longer, and we must find a way to dispose of them properly. But here’s the twist—most of us may not realize the dangers of tossing these batteries in the trash or recycling bins.

Understanding the Risks

The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services (SCDES) has some eye-opening information for us: it estimates that improperly disposed lithium-ion batteries are responsible for around 5,000 fires in recycling facilities. That number is quite alarming, isn’t it? As we continue our love affair with portable electronics, the number of battery fires at these facilities has only gone up.

Interim Director of SCDES, Myra Reece, emphasized the importance of proper battery handling. “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,” she said. Reece warns us that “Rechargeable batteries should not be placed in garbage or recycling containers”, as this could pose serious dangers to sanitation workers, solid waste professionals, firefighters, and many others.

What Can You Do?

Do you have old lithium-ion batteries gathering dust in your home or workshop? Good news! SCDES, in partnership with the state chapter of the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA), is hosting a special drop-off event for rechargeable batteries. This event takes place on Thursday, September 19, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. They will be collecting lithium-ion batteries and rechargeable devices at the front lobby of SCDES, located at 2600 Bull St.

Wondering what you can bring? You can drop off items like smartphones, tablets, electric toothbrushes, laptops, power tool batteries, rechargeable vacuum batteries, wireless headphones, and any other lithium-ion batteries. This is a perfect chance to clear out your storage space while making a positive impact on the environment!

Safety Precautions

Before you head out to drop off your batteries, there’s an important safety step you need to take. If you have loose lithium-ion or nickel-metal-hydride batteries, be sure to tape both ends of the battery. This small act can help prevent any accidents or fires from occurring during transportation. Oh, and don’t forget to wipe your devices clean—remove all personal data before saying goodbye to those gadgets!

Conclusion

people but also safeguard the environment. So mark your calendars for the drop-off event on September 19 and help spread the word! Together, we can make a difference in ensuring that our community stays safe and eco-friendly.