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July 22, 2024
No matter how small, lithium ion batteries and e-waste present a growing safety risk when not disposed of properly.
The City urges residents to take charge and properly dispose of batteries and electronic waste, including vape pens, tablets or computers, power tools, toys and anything else that can be recharged or has an internal lithium ion battery. These items can be taken to an Eco Station or dropped off at a number of local retailers across the City for free.
Lithium ion batteries, on their own or as internal components in e-waste, can expand, ignite and explode during waste processing. As electronic devices have become more common, there is an increase in e-waste and battery-related fires at City waste facilities, which put staff and facilities at significant risk.
E-waste goes well beyond the classic AA and AAA batteries used in remotes, electronics and toys. If it makes noise, lights up, connects to the Internet or it is plugged in to charge, it contains an internal battery and needs to be disposed of with caution.
Some other common items that have internal batteries are:
- Vaporizers, vape pens and e-cigarettes
- E-scooters, E-bikes or any battery operated mobility device
- Wireless headphones, earbuds or portable speakers
- Handheld kitchen appliances (mixers, inversion blenders, frothers)
- Smartwatches and fitness trackers
- Digital cameras and camcorders
- Remote controls
- Portable gaming devices
- Smart home devices (thermostats, doorbells, security cameras)
- Electronic toys
- Laptops, tablets, cellphones and chargers
If residents are unable to properly dispose of used batteries right away, place tape over both ends while you store them. The tape prevents the battery from connecting and reacting with other batteries while you collect them for proper disposal.
Find the nearest Eco Station, or learn more about how to properly dispose of any item through the WasteWise website or app.
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