Can you legally throw away batteries in Michigan?
Does it matter what kind of batteries you want to get rid of?
Michigan law provides a detailed breakdown for this specific situation.
The Natural Resources and Environmental Protection Act prohibits the disposal of lead acid batteries in the trash, recycling, or landfills.
“It is illegal to discard a lead acid battery except by delivery to a retailer, a distributor, a manufacturer, or a collection, recycling, or smelting factory approved by the department.”
Similarly, the state requires “retailers to accept used lead-acid batteries upon purchase or within 30 calendar days of purchase of a lead-acid battery.”
Why is it so important to dispose of batteries properly?
According to Battery Recyclers of America, improper disposal could harm our soil, water supply, and other vital resources.
“More than 90% of zinc carbon batteries end up in landfills. The improper disposal of these batteries has a negative impact on the environment.
When the metallic cylinder corrodes, the zinc carbon enters the soil. This enters our water supply, which nourishes the food we consume. Excessive exposure to these heavy metals can result in neurological problems and cancer.
If you have lithium batteries, such as single-use and button-cell batteries, you should recycle them by bringing them to a drop-off station or a retail location like Batteries Plus or Interstate All Battery Center.
Depending on the type of battery you’re disposing of, you can find a Call2Recycle location nearby.
