Why is it not a good idea to throw used batteries in the trash?

Most batteries—regardless of type—contain toxic chemicals. If your old batteries end up in a landfill, pollutants like these can leak out into the environment and contaminate groundwater, damage fragile ecosystems, and even make their way into the food chain.

How do you dispose of dead batteries?

All batteries in California must be taken to a Household Hazardous Waste disposal facility, a universal waste handler, or an authorized recycling facility.

Can you throw Duracell batteries in the trash?

As Duracell’s website says: “Alkaline batteries can be safely disposed of with normal household waste.” Energizer confirms that regular batteries are fine to toss in the trash, but says rechargeable batteries should be recycled according to US federal guidelines.

Is it illegal to throw away batteries in California?

In California it is illegal to throw any type of battery (including disposable single-use batteries) in the trash. Proven cost-effective and environmentally safe recycling processes are not yet universally available for alkaline batteries.

Can you throw away batteries?

Yes, single-use batteries are now made of common metals deemed non-hazardous by the federal government and can be disposed of in your regular trash in all states except California, where it is illegal to throw away all types of batteries.

What do I do with old AA batteries?

How to recycle single-use batteries:

1. Call your local solid waste district to find out if your community has a collection program or upcoming event.
2. Search the area for recycling centers that accept single-use batteries using Earth911’s Recycling Search.
3. Find a mail-in recycling program that accepts batteries.

How do you dispose of batteries at home?

Ordinary Batteries: Regular alkaline, manganese, and carbon-zinc batteries are not considered hazardous waste and can be disposed of with ordinary trash. Other common single use or rechargeable batteries such as lithium and button batteries are recyclable, but access to recycling may not be available in all locations.