Battery Recycling FAQs

1. What are the benefits of recycling batteries?

There are numerous benefits to recycling batteries:

  • Recycled batteries can be reused to make new products.
  • Recycled batteries mean fewer materials going into landfills.
  • Recycled batteries conserve natural resources.
  • Recycled batteries can be used to produce energy.

2. What happens to batteries that aren’t recycled?

Most unrecycled batteries end up sent to a landfill like most trash. Here are some negative impacts of throwing batteries away instead of recycling them:

  • Toxic materials in batteries can enter water sources and cause pollution.
  • Accidental or improper incineration can release toxic fumes into the air.
  • If improperly discarded, certain batteries can explode and thus cause injury and property damage.

3. What battery types can be recycled?

UT Dallas is able to accept and recycle all types, sizes, and shapes of batteries. This includes disposable and rechargeable batteries. Here are some examples of batteries accepted for recycling:

  • Lithium-ion (Li-ion)
  • Nickel-Cadmium (NiCd)
  • Nickel Metal Hydride (NiMH)
  • Alkaline
  • Primary Lithium (Li)
  • Mercury, Silver Oxide, Zinc Air (Button)

4. How do I recycle my batteries at UTD?

Click here to find the closest collection location within your department.

  1. Tape the terminals or ends of the batteries. This reduces the risk of fire by preventing batteries from coming into contact with other batteries or any metal. (Tape is included with the collection container.) Please tape in such a way that the type of battery is still visible. Another option is to place similar batteries either individually or side by side in clear plastic bags so that the ends do not touch.
  2. Place batteries in the designated container and close the lid. Lead-acid batteries, and other larger batteries that do not fit in the container, should be requested for pick-up by the Hazardous Waste team. Send requests to the Hazardous Waste or visit the Waste Pickup information page.

5. Is there a limit to how many batteries I can recycle?

Battery recycling containers will be checked and emptied quarterly. The containers can only hold three gallons, so if you have a large amount of batteries to recycle at once, email the Hazardous Waste personnel to schedule a pickup.

6. What should I do with damaged and/or leaking batteries?

Keep the leaking or damaged batteries separated from other batteries. If possible, place the batteries in a plastic bag. Call or email the Hazardous Waste to request a special pickup.

7. The battery container is full. What should I do?

If the battery recycling container becomes full before the scheduled pick-up date, notify the Hazardous Waste team.

8. Which batteries are best choices for purchase?

Rechargeable batteries are your best buy for your wallet and the environment. Reusing batteries not only minimizes the quantity sent for disposal and recycling, but it is also cost effective.

9. Can I bring my batteries from home?

Do not bring batteries from home to campus to dispose. See question #13 for locations where to recycle batteries in your area.

10. I live in the residence halls; how do I recycle my batteries?

Student government has provided battery recycling containers in the common areas of the residence halls and clubhouses. Simply tape terminal ends or place the batteries in small plastic bags before dropping them into the recycling container.

11. What if I have a lot of batteries or several lead acid batteries that will not fit in the collection containers?

Place the batteries in a container that will support the weight and be comfortably picked up. Send requests to the Hazardous Waste or visit the Waste Pickup information page.

12. I requested to have a battery picked up, now what?

Pickups will be completed within a week of the request.

13. What if I’m not on campus and need to recycle my batteries?

Contact your local municipality to find the best battery recycling options in your area. Many battery retailers often will take batteries back.

14. How do I request a pick-up for lead-acid batteries?

Typically found in UPS equipment, these batteries are treated and handled as hazardous waste and require a hazardous waste request to be submitted. This can be done by visiting the Waste Pickup information page. Further guidance and information can be submitted to the Hazardous Waste team.

Questions not answered?

Contact the Hazardous Waste team.