#USA #Houston #battery safety #WM #Recycle Right

WM Enhances Recycle Right® Rules

In a significant step towards safer recycling practices, WM (Waste Management), North America’s top provider of environmental solutions, has announced the addition of a crucial rule to its Recycle Right® initiatives. As of June 15, 2026, batteries, including both alkaline and lithium-ion types, are prohibited from being disposed of in recycling and trash bins. This decision stems from the growing concern over fire risks associated with battery disposal, which poses threats not only to facility operations but also to the safety of workers and the surrounding community.

According to Ryan Nordt, executive director of recycling operations at WM, "Batteries don't belong in recycling or trash; they're a fire risk that puts workers, first responders, collection vehicles, and facilities in danger." This newly established rule aims to protect people and communities while preventing potential fires caused by improperly discarded batteries. Research indicates that recycling facilities across the nation experience an alarming estimated 5,000 battery-related fires each year, creating an urgent need for public awareness and proper disposal education.

Batteries, especially alkaline batteries commonly found in household items like remote controls, clocks, and toys, as well as lithium-ion batteries used in a wide array of devices from smartphones to bicycles, are increasingly relevant in today’s society. Market Reports World suggests that increasing energy demands, particularly for lithium-ion batteries—which is expected to grow nearly sevenfold by 2030—underscore the importance of battery recycling and recovery practices.

For consumers unfamiliar with proper battery disposal practices, WM recommends visiting batterysafetynow.org where users can find local drop-off locations and additional resources on battery handling. The National Waste and Recycling Association strongly supports WM's new regulations. President and CEO, Michael E. Hoffman, emphasizes, "Every effort to educate consumers on the correct way to recover batteries is imperative."

Why the New Rule Matters

The introduction of the 'no batteries' rule aligns with WM's continued commitment to sustainability and environmental safety. The public is advised to adhere to four simple recycling rules as outlined on WM’s Recycle Right® website:
1. Recycle empty, dry bottles, cups, cans, tubs, paper, and cardboard.
2. Do not include food or liquid in recyclables.
3. Avoid bagged recyclables.
4. No batteries in the recycling or trash.

By adhering to these guidelines, consumers play a crucial role in minimizing fire risk and enhancing the efficiency of recycling operations. Batteries represent a pressing challenge due to their combustible materials that can short-circuit and create hard-to-extinguish blazes. Improperly handled batteries can lead to hazardous situations, endangering not only facility workers but also communities at large.

Learning More about Battery Disposal

To guide consumers on how to dispose of batteries correctly, WM advises checking with local municipalities, fire departments, and hardware stores for best disposal practices. Resources like WM's Recycle Right® page and the How2Recycle site are invaluable for effective recycling tips and understanding local municipal recycling acceptance policies. As WM continues to lead the way in environmental solutions, its escalating efforts in consumer education regarding battery disposal signify a strong move towards a safer, more environmentally responsible future.

In conclusion, the implementation of the fourth rule to the Recycle Right® initiative reflects WM’s proactive steps in addressing recycling challenges while ensuring public safety. By restricting battery inclusion in refusal and recycling, WM not only prioritizes community well-being but reinforces its role as a leading force in sustainable practices across North America.