Recycling Electronics and Batteries the Right Way

Batteries and electronics are all around us, and many contain hazardous chemicals and heavy metals that can harm our environment and health if not disposed of correctly.

Why Electronics and Batteries Need Special Handling

Electronics and batteries contain valuable metals, hazardous chemicals and components that can cause fires if not managed properly. When tossed in the trash or mixed into regular recycling, they can:

• Spark fires in garbage trucks and recycling facilities
• Leak toxic substances into soil and water
• Exposes workers to dangerous materials
• Lead to the loss of recoverable materials

Due to these risks, they must be managed properly. Follow your local government’s directions for proper disposal.

What to Do with Old Electronics

Before recycling, remove any personal data stored on the device. Once you are ready to drop it off, here are your options:

1. Use Certified Electronics Programs

In Oregon, Oregon E-Cycles accepts items such as:

• Computers and laptops
• TVs and monitors
• Printers
• Tablets and e-readers

These programs ensure electronics are responsibly dismantled, materials are recovered and hazardous components are managed safely.

2. Retailers and Community Events

Many retailers participate in electronics take-back programs and accept cables, small devices, and sometimes larger equipment. Community collection events are another way to recycle items locally, especially if you have multiple devices. We recommend reaching out to your local government for information on future collection events.

3. Donate When Possible

If a device still works, consider donating it to a local nonprofit or resale organization. Extending the life of an item is one of the most sustainable options.

How to Recycle Batteries Safely

Batteries of all kinds must be recycled separately because they can ignite under pressure or damage recycling equipment.

Single-Use Batteries (AA, AAA, 9V, etc.)

These can often be taken to designated household hazardous waste sites or programs that accept dry-cell batteries.

Rechargeable Batteries

Rechargeable batteries contain highly recyclable materials. Programs like Call2Recycle accept:

• Lithium-ion batteries
• Nickel metal hydride batteries
• Small rechargeable packs
• Some single-use batteries, depending on the location

Call2Recycle ensures batteries are handled safely and that valuable metals are recovered for reuse.

Damaged, Swollen or Bulging Batteries

These pose a serious fire hazard and must be handled with extra care. Place them in nonflammable material like sand or kitty litter and take them to your local hazardous waste facility as soon as possible.

What Not to Do

To keep people and facilities safe, please avoid the following:

• Never put electronics or batteries in recycling bins
• Do not attempt to puncture, open or crush batteries
• Avoid stockpiling damaged batteries

Why Proper Recycling Matters

Recycling electronics and batteries protects our environment, our communities and the people who keep our recycling systems running. When handled correctly, the metals and components inside these items can be recovered and reused, reducing the need for new mining and conserving natural resources. Safe recycling also prevents fires, keeps hazardous chemicals out of soil and waterways, and ensures that workers are not exposed to dangerous materials. Choosing the right drop-off option is a simple action that creates a meaningful impact for everyone.

A Greener Future Starts with You

Take a moment to plan how you will dispose of your electronics and batteries responsibly. Use certified drop-off programs, donate working devices and recycle batteries whenever possible. Every safe choice helps keep materials in use, hazardous substances out of the environment and your community safer.