Batteries

Waste batteries generated on campus generally fall into one of four categories:

  • Lead acid batteries - primarily from vehicles and gas-powered machinery;
  • Alkaline batteries/ non-rechargeable – typically D, C, AA, AAA, and 9-volt sizes used in flashlights, cameras, radios, smoke detectors, etc;
  • Button batteries – from watches, calculators, hearing aids, etc; and
  • Rechargeable Batteries - commonly found in laptop computers, cordless power tools, cellular and cordless phones, camcorders, digital cameras, and remote control toys. They include the following types: Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd), Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH), Lithium Ion (Li-ion) and Small Sealed Lead (Pb).

Lead-acid batteries from University vehicles are generally retained for recycling by the vehicle maintenance facility, or the retailer that you purchase a new battery from. If for some reason you have a lead-acid battery that you cannot recycle through your new battery provider, contact the Director of Environmental Management for assistance (6-8334).

Alkaline, button, and rechargeable batteries generated on-campus can be recycled. Options for recycling include:

  • Faculty and staff can bring batteries to the Environmental Management office;
  • A pickup request can be submitted through the on-line request form on the Sustainability web page (under 'Recycling').

Used batteries may be collected within your office or work area for periodic pickup. A small plastic or cardboard box is sufficient; the storage box must be labeled with the phrase 'Universal Waste - Used Batteries'. We recommend having your used batteries picked up at least quarterly; this allows use of a smaller container and helps avoid other issues like corroding batteries. If you have additional questions please contact the Director of Environmental Management.