Most lithium-ion batteries, when discarded, are classified as hazardous waste due to their ignitability and reactivity. These regulations cover aspects like labeling, storage, and transportation of used batteries.
Most lithium-ion batteries on the market are likely to meet the definition of hazardous waste under the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). Most lithium-ion batteries when discarded would likely be considered ignitable and reactive hazardous wastes (carrying the waste codes D001 and D003, respectively).
How to recycle lithium batteries?
Properly recycling lithium batteries is essential to ensure their safe handling and disposal. To start, it's recommended to remove the battery from the device whenever possible. If the batteries are physically damaged, they should be stored in an insulated plastic bag to avoid any short-circuiting.
Can You ship lithium batteries with a hazardous waste transporter?
EPA's universal waste battery regulations do not mandate use of a uniform hazardous waste manifest or shipment using a hazardous waste transporter, but Department of Transportation regulations for shipping lithium batteries do apply.
Do not place the waste lithium batteries in the household trash or in curbside recycling bins. Instead, EPA recommends that all household lithium batteries be dropped off at battery collection sites (e.g., often located at electronics retailers) or household hazardous waste collection facilities for proper management.
Can rechargeable lithium ion batteries be managed as universal waste?
Yes. Both rechargeable lithium-ion and single use lithium primary batteries can be managed as universal waste. The universal waste definitions describe batteries as devices consisting of one or more electrically connected electrochemical cells which are designed to receive, store, and deliver electric energy (40 CFR 273.9).
Should used Li-ion batteries be disposed of under universal waste standards?
Although EPA recommends that all batteries be managed under the universal waste standards, persons collecting or storing used Li-ion batteries from households or from VSQGs for the purposes of either exemption should keep them separate from other collected Li-ion batteries that are subject to more stringent requirements.