#United States #Springfield #Battery Network #Illinois EPA #Battery Stewardship

Illinois Expands Battery Recycling Program

The state of Illinois has taken a significant step forward by expanding its battery recycling program under the recently implemented Illinois Portable and Medium-format Battery Stewardship Act. This initiative aims to make the recycling of all household and medium-format batteries safer, easier, and more convenient for residents.

The Importance of Battery Recycling

Improper battery disposal can lead to dangerous situations such as fires and chemical hazards that threaten homes, communities, and the environment. The new legislation addresses these risks by fostering a more responsible approach to battery recycling.

Leo Raudys, CEO of The Battery Network, emphasized the importance of proper battery recycling, stating, "Proper battery recycling protects communities, workers, and the environment." The statewide program offers a convenient network of drop-off locations, allowing Illinois residents to recycle batteries easily. This initiative not only helps divert batteries from landfills but also aids in conserving precious materials for future use.

Overview of Accepted Batteries

Under this new program, Illinois residents can recycle:

• - Household Batteries: This category includes both primary (single-use) and rechargeable batteries typically found in everyday household devices such as remotes, toys, flashlights, cordless power tools, and more.
• - Medium-Format Batteries: These are larger rechargeable batteries, weighing up to 25 pounds, used for various applications like electric lawn mowers, e-bikes, and e-scooters.
• - Damaged Batteries: Unsafe lithium batteries that are swollen, leaking, or otherwise compromised must be taken to authorized collection sites for safe disposal.

Simplified Recycling Process

Recycling in Illinois is straightforward and encourages community involvement through a simple three-step process:
1. Collect: Gather accepted batteries into a cool, dry location every six months to keep them organized.
2. Protect: Before drop-off, tape terminals or seal batteries in bags to ensure safety during transport.
3. Drop: Locate an authorized collection site nearby and recycle batteries responsibly at no cost.

Accessibility of Drop-Off Locations

The success of Illinois's battery recycling initiative relies on the availability of convenient drop-off locations hosted by participating retailers, municipal organizations, and businesses throughout the state. This growing network ensures that residents across Illinois can easily access battery recycling options.

Not only does this program reduce fire risks and protect the environment, but it also plays a critical role in recovering values from used materials for future products.

For those interested in finding their nearest battery recycling drop-off point, information is readily available at batterynetwork.org/Illinois.

Producer Stewardship Requirements

Producers of household and medium-format batteries in Illinois are now mandated to participate in an authorized stewardship program. This program provides free collection and recycling for consumers, ensuring that retailers can only sell covered batteries if they comply with the approved program requirements. The Battery Network is at the forefront of this effort, connecting consumers with an extensive collection network across Illinois.

For additional information about Illinois' battery recycling regulations, residents can visit the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency's website or reach out to The Battery Network directly.

About The Battery Network

The Battery Network, formerly known as Call2Recycle, leads the charge in transforming discarded batteries into valuable resources while minimizing environmental impacts. The organization aims to strengthen America's energy independence by keeping essential materials in circulation and reducing reliance on foreign supply chains. As a leading system for battery collection and recycling, The Battery Network links consumers, businesses, municipalities, and manufacturers, providing essential educational resources, collection logistics, and compliance expertise. For further details, visit batterynetwork.org.