SEATTLE (Recycling Monster): The District of Columbia (D.C) has launched a new battery recycling program with effect from 1st November, 2023. It is funded by battery manufacturers and implemented in partnership with Call2Recycle and the D.C. Department of Energy and Environment.

This is the first of its kind battery recycling program in the entire U.S. Prior to this, the Call2Recycle collection sites in D.C. used to accept only rechargeable batteries. These sites will now accept single-use batteries. Call2Recycle has secured as many as 22 partner sites in D.C as part of the program.

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Accordingly, the collection sites will accept batteries weighing less than 11 pounds or with a capacity of under 300 watt-hours for lithium-ion batteries from residents. Meantime, the program will not accept car or e-bike batteries. The cost of the recycling program will be met by battery manufacturers.

Three years back, D.C. had introduced law that stipulates to have at least 70 collection sites across the city. However, the implementation of the same was delayed until now.

The city noted that improper disposal of batteries may cause fire and result in release of toxic chemicals into the environment. The battery recycling program will help prevent these, thereby protecting the environment and people.