 |
| Lithium-Ion Battery |
The National Waste & Recycling Association (NWRA) and the Solid Waste Association of North America (SWANA) have issued a joint policy statement highlighting the risks associated with improper lithium-ion battery disposal. These batteries, often discarded in waste or curbside recycling bins, pose significant safety hazards, including fires that threaten waste and recycling infrastructure, property, and lives.
Promoting Safe Battery Disposal
The joint statement underscores the importance of specialized handling and take-back programs for safe battery recycling and disposal. It emphasizes:
- Hazards of improper disposal, such as fires endangering infrastructure and workers.
- Support for take-back programs, ensuring batteries are responsibly managed with end-of-life certainty.
- Public awareness initiatives, educating consumers on safe disposal methods.
Leaders Speak Out
NWRA President and CEO Michael E. Hoffman stressed the urgency of the issue, calling for widespread adoption of take-back programs to protect communities, workers, and the environment. Similarly, SWANA Executive Director and CEO Amy Lestition Burke highlighted the financial and safety challenges municipalities face due to improper battery disposal and called for improved collection opportunities.
Collaborative Efforts
Both organizations aim to advance policies that enhance safety and sustainability in battery disposal. Their efforts focus on uniting municipalities, industry stakeholders, and the public to develop responsible and economically sound recycling solutions.
Tags
SCRAP
