Keep Batteries out of the Trash and Recycling Bins

Batteries should NEVER be placed into the trash or your regular recycling bin, as they can be damaged in trucks, and potentially cause fires, endangering staff at recycling facilities.   

Batteries need to be recycled properly, at specifically designated battery recycling locations. The good news is that with nearly 15,000 convenient drop-off locations across Canada, it’s easy to recycle! Just Collect, Protect, Drop Off!  

WHY IT’S IMPORTANT: 

  • Batteries can cause sparks if they come into contact with debris. 
  • Lithium batteries can be damaged in trucks and cause fires at recycling processing centres. 
  • Batteries can overheat if left outdoors, increasing the risk of fire.  
  • Certain chemicals in the batteries could harm the environment if they end up in landfills.  
  • Some landfills in Canada are reaching their capacity. Recycling your batteries properly helps reduce materials sent to landfill.  

COLLECT, PROTECT, DROP OFF 

Hand dropping of used batteries in a glass jar

1. COLLECT: Collect your used batteries in a non-metal container. 

a man taping a battery terminal

2. PROTECT: Cover the terminals of rechargeable, lithium and alkaline batteries over 9V with electrical tape to prevent sparks. 

image of a family dropping off their used batteries in a Recycle Your Batteries, Canada! Smart Container

3. DROP OFF: Drop off your used batteries every three months at one of our nearly 15,000 convenient locations.  

 

You can find them at municipal depots, libraries, and major retailers.  

This message is brought to you by Recycle Your Batteries, Canada! in collaboration with Circular Materials. Circular Materials is a national not-for-profit organization that builds efficient and effective recycling systems across Canada.