If you’ve ever seen a Millennium Recycling presentation, social media post, been on a tour, or browsed our website…you’ve probably heard us talk about the “big recycling no-nos.”
No plastic bags, No food or liquids, and No batteries.
Recently, one of the nation’s largest waste and recycling companies updated its “Recycle Right” campaign to officially add batteries to its list of items that should stay out of both recycling and trash containers.
Their key recycling reminders now include:
- Recycle bottles, cans, and cardboard
- Keep recyclables empty and dry
- No plastic bags
- No food or liquids
- No batteries
Sound familiar?
Those are the same core recycling principles we’ve been promoting throughout our service area for years.
Every Recycling Program Is Different… But The Big Mistakes Are Usually The Same
Not every recycling program accepts the exact same materials.
For example, here in the Sioux Falls area, we accept glass bottles and jars. We also accept shredded paper when it’s placed in a clear plastic bag. Other communities may have different guidelines.
That’s why it’s always important to follow your local recycling program’s rules.
But while recycling programs may differ on some accepted materials, the major contamination and safety issues tend to be pretty universal:
- Plastic bags cause problems.
- Too much food or liquid contaminates recyclables.
- Batteries create serious safety risks.
Why The Industry Is Talking So Much About Batteries
Battery-related fires have become one of the biggest concerns facing recycling facilities, garbage trucks, transfer stations, and landfills across North America.
Many batteries, especially rechargeable lithium-ion batteries, can ignite when they’re crushed, punctured, damaged, or exposed to heat.
The challenge is that batteries aren’t just in phones anymore, they’re hidden inside all kinds of everyday items.
In many cases, people don’t even realize they’re throwing away a battery.
So What Should You Do With Batteries?
If you’re a Sioux Falls-area resident, batteries should be taken to the Household Hazardous Waste Facility (HHW).
That keeps them out of recycling carts, garbage trucks, and processing facilities where they can create safety hazards.
Businesses that generate larger quantities of batteries can work with SEAM, the region’s only fully certified electronics recycling and IT asset disposition provider, for battery recycling and management services.
The Good News
For years, one of the biggest challenges in recycling education has been mixed messages.
As more recycling organizations across the country align around the same core guidelines, it becomes easier for residents to know what’s right and what’s not.
And when it comes to batteries, the message is becoming louder and clearer: No batteries in the recycling bin.
A little extra effort to recycle batteries properly can help prevent fires, protect workers, and keep recycling programs running safely for everyone.
Image adapted from WM Recycle Right® educational materials.
Have a Recycling Question? Contact Us!