How to dispose of lithium batteries isn’t just a Google query—it’s a pressing safety and sustainability question. Improperly tossed cells spark fires in landfills and trucks, leak metals that contaminate soil and groundwater, and waste critical materials the clean-energy transition desperately needs. Fortunately, safe, responsible lithium battery disposal is straightforward when you partner with Computer Recycling.
Environmental Benefits
Preventing fires before they start
Lithium-ion cells can short-circuit, overheat, and ignite when crushed in compactors or mixed with metal scraps. Landfill and recycling-plant fires have surged in step with battery-powered devices, endangering workers and surrounding communities.
Recovering scarce resources
Recycling extracts cobalt, nickel, lithium, copper, and aluminum for new batteries and electronics, reducing demand for mining in sensitive regions and lowering the overall carbon footprint of next-generation devices.
Cutting toxic releases
When batteries burn or break open, electrolyte solvents and heavy metals escape, releasing hazardous fumes and contaminating soil. Proper collection keeps these substances out of ecosystems and water supplies.
Legal & Ethical Considerations
U.S. federal law classifies spent lithium batteries as universal waste, requiring special handling and transport labeling. Many states go further:
- California now treats battery-embedded products as covered electronic waste, channeling them into the state’s E-Waste Recycling Program.
- Connecticut bans landfill disposal of lithium-ion batteries and sets fines up to $7,000 per violation.
- New York City and statewide rules prohibit putting rechargeable batteries in curbside bins and require drop-off or mail-back programs.
Beyond penalties, organizations face reputational risk if damaged batteries trigger fires or pollution. Ethically, keeping critical minerals in circulation supports a circular economy and reduces upstream environmental harm.
Types of Lithium Batteries Accepted
Computer Recycling accepts virtually every lithium-based chemistry, including:
- Small consumer cells (phone batteries, laptop batteries, tablet batteries, camera batteries & smartwatch batteries)
- Power-tool packs and garden-equipment batteries
- E-bike, scooter, and micro-mobility modules
- Uninterruptible power-supply (UPS) and data-center battery banks
- Stationary energy-storage units
- Electric-vehicle (EV) and hybrid modules (removed or damaged)
- Medical-device and specialty instrument packs
If it’s lithium-ion, lithium-polymer, or lithium-iron-phosphate, they’ll recycle it safely.
Computer Recycling’s Lithium Battery Recycling Process
- Collection & Transport – Drivers will transport the batteries according to DOT regulations.
- Intake & inspection – Batteries are weighed and stored properly for further processing.
- Sorting – Batteries will be separated and categorized based upon their chemistry and condition.
- Processing – Batteries will then be processed for their raw material contents or may be reused in new products.
- Documentation – You receive a weight report and certificate of recycling for compliance and reporting purposes.
Where & How to Recycle
- Drop-off: Monday–Friday at one of Computer Recycling’s approved facilities.
- Bulk pick-up: Palletized batteries collected throughout CT, DE, ME, MD, MA, NJ, NY, PA, RI, VT, VA, and Washington, DC, on scheduled routes.
- Community events: Partner events with municipalities and schools to host electronic and battery recycling events.
Corporate & Bulk Services
Manufacturers, media companies, law-enforcement agencies, and Fortune 500 IT departments trust Computer Recycling for:
- On-site pack-out and consolidation
- DOT-compliant services
- Consolidated invoicing by chemistry type
- Data-center decommissioning with server, rack, and battery removal in one visit
How to Prepare a Lithium Battery for Recycling
- Cover terminals with clear packing or electrical tape to prevent short circuits.
- Bag individually or layer with non-conductive padding.
- Store cool & dry away from direct sun or heat sources.
- Flag swollen or damaged cells—place them in sand or vermiculite and reach out to your local municipal recycling coordinator for further steps.
Why Choose Computer Recycling
- Decades of specialized lithium battery recycling experience
- Fully insured and licensed operation
- Flexible pricing—by pound, per pallet, or project
- Certificates of recycling for compliance and reporting
Recycle your old lithium batteries responsibly—contact Computer Recycling today for a fast quote or to schedule service. Call 877-752-5455 or request pickup online.
