How to dispose of batteries safely

Batteries make our daily lives more convenient. Once they are used, though, they must be disposed of properly. If thrown in the trash or recycling, lithium-ion and other rechargeable batteries may catch fire and pose a threat to people and property. Some batteries also contain toxic metals such as cadmium, lead or mercury that can pose a threat to health and the environment.  Put batteries in their place by dropping them off at Hennepin County Drop-off Facility. Here is how to dispose of batteries safely:

Bring button batteries, lithium-ion and other rechargeable batteries to the South Hennepin Recycling and Problem Waste Drop-Off Center, 1400 West 96th Street. These batteries cannot go in trash or recycling carts.

Single-use AA, AAA and other alkaline batteries may be brought to Hennepin’s Drop-Off Facility to be recycled. While these are safe to put in the garbage, recycling them is better for the environment because less is going to the landfill. Do not put batteries into a recycling cart. For more information, visit hennepin.us/batteryrecycling.