Alkaline Batteries
- These types of batteries do not contain hazardous material and do not contain enough power to pose a fire or safety risk. Once used, they may be placed in the trash.
- If you aren't sure of a battery type, bring it to the Carver County Environmental Center and staff can make that determination.
Lithium Ion, Lithium Primary, NiCd, Lead, Button Batteries, Rechargeable Batteries
- These types of batteries contain toxic or hazardous metals and pose a threat if improperly disposed.
- Drop off at the Carver County Environmental Center.
- Lithium batteries of 500 watts or more are not accepted at the Environmental Center. Please call (952) 361-1835 for more information or disposal options.
- If unable to remove battery from device, bring the entire device to the facility.
Of special concern are batteries containing lithium. This type of battery has become commonplace in modern electronic devices due to a high energy density and long life. While these batteries offer many advantages, it is crucial to prioritize safety measures to prevent potential hazards associated with their use.
A primary concern is the risk of thermal runaway, which is when a lithium battery overheats and, in extreme cases, starts a fire or explodes.
Lithium battery explosion demonstration video
Disposal
All battery chemistries can be brought to the Environmental Center in Chaska. If you aren't certain what type of battery you have, we ask that you bring them to the Environmental Center where staff can make that determination.
Staff at the Environmental Center sort every battery by hand to make sure they are sorted by battery chemistry, and prepared for shipment according to DOT regulations.
More information about the sorting process can be found here
Bringing Batteries to the Environmental Center
- Keep batteries separate from other materials, especially fragile items like light bulbs and other glass.
- Bring them in small cardboard box or rigid plastic container with a lid - avoid plastic bags.
- If you have a compromised battery, for example one that's bulging, make sure to isolate it away from other materials. In a container, with a lid is best.
- Notify staff if you have batteries, especially if you have one you think might be damaged or defective.
