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The National Waste & Recycling Association (“NWRA”) and the Solid Waste Association of North America (“SWANA”) released a January 2025 Policy Statement that is stated to address what is described as the:
…critical issue of lithium-ion battery disposal.
The organizations note that the improper disposal of such batteries:
…presents significant safety hazards, including fires that endanger people, property, and the waste and recycling infrastructure.
The Policy Statement summarizes their position by stating:
…Lithium-ion batteries require special handling for proper recycling and disposal. They should never be placed in waste or curbside recycling bins as they can cause fires, endangering people and waste and recycling infrastructure. The best solution is to use take-back programs designed for safe collection and recycling. The National Waste & Recycling Association and the Solid Waste Association of North America are committed to promoting awareness and supporting policy initiatives that ensure proper battery disposal to protect workers, communities and the environment.
A copy of the Policy Statement can be downloaded here.
