How to Safely Transport Rechargeable Batteries for Recycling

Call2Recycle, the consumer battery stewardship and collection program headquartered in Atlanta, released its collection data for 2022 which showed that nearly 8 million pounds of batteries were collected for recycling in the U.S., the majority of which were lithium-ion batteries. The 3 million pounds of lithium-ion batteries collected is the highest number of these batteries ever collected by Call2Recycle and contributed to an overall 4% growth in rechargeable battery collection. This growth was attributed to the increasing electrification of our economy and consumer adoption of technology. 

The organization also reported a 16% increase in online drop-off locator searches and a 12% increase in batteries collected from retail sites, pointing to growing consumer awareness regarding battery disposal and recycling. In Vermont, the first U.S. state to mandate primary battery producers finance a battery recycling program, more than 149,000 pounds of batteries were collected through Call2Recycle's established network last year. 

The organization notes that primary battery usage peaked during the pandemic but has since decreased as people returned to work and school; this decline in usage has led to a decrease in the immediate recycling rate due to shorter "purchase to end-of-life" time. Additionally, Call2Recycle launched an industry-supported e-bike battery recycling program. It saw more than 26,000 pounds of e-bike batteries recycled within its first year, with participation from 37 original equipment manufacturers representing 53 brands across 1,600 specially trained e-bike battery collection sites nationwide.

To further promote responsible recycling habits among consumers, Call2Recycle stresses the need for better education on how to dispose of different types of batteries safely and as increased efforts towards encouraging active engagement from customers due to the lack of curbside options available for many types of batteries. 

Are you Properly Transporting Batteries for Recycling? 

To ensure that batteries are recycled responsibly, consumers should be aware of the proper precautions when transporting them. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the International Air Transport Association (IATA) have strict regulations for the safe transport of batteries and battery-powered products, including a requirement that any lithium-ion batteries must be shipped at 30% or less capacity in Wh/kg. Failure to follow these regulations can result in fines and other penalties for individuals and businesses.

Transportation packaging for lithium-ion batteries is also crucial when recycling rechargeable batteries. All packages must contain clear labeling with the UN number. This identification number indicates hazardous materials classification and other safety information like the temperature class, net weight, hazardous materials description, shipper name and address, carrier authorization code, emergency response phone numbers, etc. 

For e-bikes specifically, Call2Recycle encourages consumers to disconnect battery power from the bike completely before sending it for recycling by activating its power switch or removing it from the frame altogether. This ensures that batteries are transported safely and without any risk of combustion or fire during transit. Additionally, Call2Recycle suggests wrapping e-bike batteries with bubble wrap or foam padding to protect them further while shipping. Consumers need to check with their local authorities regarding any additional laws on transporting rechargeable batteries before attempting to recycle them. 

It's also beneficial for businesses that produce large amounts of used rechargeable batteries to partner with a reliable recycling provider who can safely handle their waste material and ensure proper disposal by industry standards and government regulations. By following these guidelines and working together proactively towards responsible battery disposal practices, we can all help reduce our global environmental footprint and protect our planet’s resources now and in the future.

It is clear that proper battery transportation is essential for the safe and responsible disposal of used rechargeable batteries. It is important to consult a reliable recycling provider such as Critical Risk Solution to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards. Our team of experts can provide comprehensive guidance on how to safely transport batteries while minimizing the risk of liability or fines. Ultimately, by working together proactively towards responsible battery disposal practices, we can help reduce our global environmental footprint and protect our planet’s resources now and in the future. Contact Critical Risk Solution today if you need assistance responsibly transporting your used rechargeable batteries.