Battery Recycling
Multiple buildings and units at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign host battery collections sponsored by the Illinois Portable and Medium-Format Battery Stewardship Act and managed by the The Battery Network.
These collection points accept all single-use and rechargeable batteries that are less than 11 pounds, 300 watts, and undamaged. Accepted chemistries include Alkaline, Lithium-Ion, Nickel Cadmium, Nickel Metal Hydride, Nickel Zinc, and Small Sealed Lead Acid (button batteries).
For more information, go to The Battery Network website: https://batterynetwork.org/battery-basics/what-to-recycle/.
Want to start a collection?
The University is working on creating a campus collection map and actively seeking more collection site hosts! If you’re interested in hosting, fill out the campus registration form. For now, please find disposal sites using the The Battery Network collection site locator: https://batterynetwork.org/state-recycling-laws/illinois/#find
FAQs
Q: Is it illegal to throw away batteries?
A: Not yet. Under Section 70 of the Act, these batteries will be prohibited from Illinois landfills and trash cans starting January 1, 2028.
Q: Do I need to tape or bag my batteries?
A: Yes, please tape both terminals of all lithium-ion batteries. These high-powered batteries pose the highest fire risk in transit. Alkaline batteries should not be taped – they don’t need it for safety reasons and it reduces their recyclability.
Please also tape both sides of all coin batteries, preferably with packing tape so it covers the whole battery. Fun fact: this is called a battery ravioli! Tape should be enough protection for most batteries. Use bags for soft-sided or “pouch” batteries, cell phones, or for alkaline batteries that are dirty or corroded. Feel free to drop off bags of taped batteries from home.
Q: Can I donate damaged, defective, and recalled batteries?
A: Damaged, defective, and recalled (DDR) lithium-ion batteries can only be mailed in specially marked, protective boxes. Put the battery in sand or kitty litter and use the Battery Network’s locator to find an appropriate container.
Alkaline batteries that are corroded or leaking white powder can be put in general collection boxes, but please put them in a bag (multiple in one bag is fine) to keep other batteries cleaner. This substance (often compounds of zinc, ammonia, or hydroxide) is generally non-toxic but can be caustic, so wash your hands after handling.
Q: How do I know if my lithium-ion battery is damaged, defective, or recalled?
A: Recalls can be found at the Consumer Product Safety Commission website. Your battery may be damaged or defective if:
- Temperature: battery feels warm or hot to the touch
- Swelling: battery casing appears to bulge or swell
- Discoloration: battery casing is discolored
- Wire exposure: loose or damaged wires are showing
- Damaged casing: crushed or punctured
- Strange Odors: emitting unusual smells or odors
See the question above for corroded or leaking alkaline batteries. If you’re not sure what chemistry your battery is, play it safe and use a DDR battery recycling box.
Q: Can I recycle my cell phone?
A: Yes, but we recommend factory resetting it first so that your data is more protected. Tape the charging port or put into a bag, as most phones use lithium-ion batteries. If the phone is in good shape, consider factory resetting it and donating it for reuse.
Q: Can I donate vapes?
A: No, unless you take it out of the casing and donate only the battery. Nicotine and marijuana are hazardous waste and controlled substances, respectively, and need special handling. Talk to your smoke shop about take-back programs for cartridges.
Q: Where are these batteries recycled? What do they become?
A: The Battery Network works with many sorting and processing partners across the U.S. Read about their process on their website: https://batterynetwork.org/battery-basics/the-recycling-process/. For more info, email recycling@illinois.edu.
