Save unwanted batteries for spring curbside collection

Residents are reminded to save their used or unwanted batteries for recycling in the spring.

Spring battery collection occurs the week of April 22 on blue box collection days for households across Durham Region that currently receive curbside collection services.

The reason to hold on to batteries until then is because up to 92 per cent of battery components are recyclable and recoverable.

Recycling batteries can help to eliminate mercury, cadmium and other heavy metals from entering the environment.

Residents received two orange labels in their 2018-2019 Waste Collection Calendar Guide. A printable version of the label can be found at durham.ca/Battery.

Residents should affix the label to a clear, sealable plastic bag containing their used or unwanted household batteries. Sealed bags should be placed on top of paper blue boxes for collection.

Batteries should be stored in a cool, dry location, away from any flammable material, prior to recycling. During storage, battery terminals should not be in contact with conductive materials. The terminals on lithium and nine-volt batteries, in particular, should be covered with masking tape prior to storage.

For more information about preparing batteries for recycling, visit durham.ca/Battery.