Your batteries are old and have reached the end of their useful life. Now what?
Recycling your batteries keeps dangerous chemicals out of landfills and protects the environment.
Plus (and this is a big plus) recycling helps regain metals like cobalt, nickel, copper, and lithium — which can be reused to make new batteries and keep costs low.
On the flip side, tossing spent batteries in the trash or non-regulated waste streams can lead to fires and other environmental issues. And if that happens, you could be held responsible.
So how do you ensure your batteries are recycled properly?
The best way is to work with a reputable battery recycler.
Here’s what to look for:
1. The Battery Recycler’s Experience
When you start searching for a battery recycler, it can be hard to distinguish between all the different companies.
You’ll see lots of references to “reliability” and “quality service.”
So how do you know the recycler you’re working with is actually up to the task?
A good recycler will have experience in every aspect of battery recycling, from safe transportation to disposal.
They should be familiar with recycling all different types of batteries, including lithium-ion, lead-acid, absolytes, and NiCads.
There’s nothing more frustrating than having to work with a different recycler for each type of battery.
2. The Battery Recycler’s Reputation
If you’re hiring a plumber or electrician, you probably ask friends and family who they recommend. Similarly, when you’re looking for a battery recycler, it’s smart to vet their reputation.
A good recycler will be able to point you to other companies they’ve worked with. You can usually find this information on the company’s website or social media accounts.
Don’t be shy about asking for information on previous projects. Reputable recyclers will be happy to provide you with case studies to show their work.
3. How Much Do They Charge to Recycle Your Old Batteries?
Once you’ve checked your recycler’s credentials, it’s time to get a pricing quote. While we’re all looking to get the most money for our spent batteries, be wary if a recycler comes in with a quote that sounds too good to be true.
Yes, it seems like a great deal, but the reality is the recycler is most likely cutting corners somewhere. Often this means sending your spent batteries overseas where they may not be disposed of safely.
4. Does the Battery Recycler Have EPA Approval?
On that note, it’s important to make sure you look for a recycler who uses EPA-approved facilities.
An increasing percentage of batteries are sent out of the US to countries with more relaxed environmental standards, causing harm to the environment and sometimes even the workers processing the materials.
Recycling with organizations that are regulated and in good standing with the EPA will ensure that no dangerous chemicals are released.
5. Do They Provide You with a Recycling Certificate?
After your batteries are recycled, your recycler should provide you with a recycling certificate.
Recycling certificates include the date of pickup, the battery generator, the appropriate bill of lading and/or relevant job numbers, type of battery recycled, received weight, and EPA Identification number of the smelting facility.
The certificate confirms that all applicable material described has been received and appropriately recycled and that all processes are compliant with local, state, and federal regulations.
Put simply, a recycling certificate proves that your batteries have been recycled properly and demonstrates your dedication to protecting our environment.
Work with the Experts at Union Battery
Choosing the right battery recycler is the best way to make sure your batteries are recycled properly.
At Union Battery, our team has over 10 years of experience recycling all battery chemistries. We are trusted by companies like Tesla, Amazon, and the US Department of Energy. We use EPA-approved facilities and provide you with a recycling certificate.
