Household Batteries, Oil, Paint, Antifreeze, and Electronics (BOPAE)

Alkaline batteries in the state of Tennessee can be safely disposed of as stated in  The Mercury-Containing and Rechargeable Battery Management Act - Public Law 104-142, passed in 1996. The Act determined that mercury-containing batteries were not to be produced anymore. Alkaline batteries produced today contain no mercury or acid and can safely be discarded in the trash. Alkaline batteries are corrosive but do not contain acid, as the battery solution is a base. Therefore, they are called alkaline batteries. Batteries with the recycle symbol SHOULD NOT be placed in regular recycle containers but managed separately as a SPECIAL RECYCLED COMMODITY.

Terminals do not need to be taped to alkaline batteries since these are one-charge batteries and cannot be recharged. There are lithium batteries that are one-time use and are called Lithium Primary Batteries. These are used in small household appliances, flashlights, radios, and other items. They come in a range of sizes from AA to button batteries, and it is highly advised that you look at your batteries before adding them to your waste stream. Lithium batteries of any kind do not go into your household waste/trash; they must be recycled separately from other batteries. More information about lithium battery management is listed in the section on lithium batteries.

Alkaline battery terminals must be taped with a non-conductive material if the battery is over 9 volts, so that the terminals do not contact other battery terminals. 6 and 9-volt batteries with terminals on the same end should also be taped.  Here are some examples:

• Electrical tape
• Packing tape
• Duct tape

* If batteries are going to be sent to a recycler, try not to cover the entire battery so that sorters can determine the type.

The most common lead-acid batteries are found in most cars.

Lead-acid batteries should be stored separately from other batteries and placed on a pallet completely covered from the elements of nature.

Place batteries on the pallet and make sure that no terminals are touching.

Do NOT ship lead-acid batteries with any other battery and definitely not with lithium batteries. When batteries are shipped, they must be packaged in accordance with Department of Transportation requirements. Most facilities that recycle lead-acid batteries shred them in an approved shredder. If a lithium battery is mixed in and is shredded, it will cause fires and potential explosions.

Handling NiMH Batteries During Fires

In the event there is a fire where nickel-metal hydride (NiMH) batteries are present, apply a smothering agent such as METL-X, sand, dry ground dolomite, or soda ash. The area can also be flooded with water. A smothering agent will extinguish burning nickel-metal hydride batteries. Water may not extinguish burning batteries, but it will cool the adjacent batteries and control the spread of fire. Burning batteries will eventually self-extinguish. Virtually all fires involving NiMH batteries can be controlled with water. However, when water is used, hydrogen gas may be produced. In a confined space, hydrogen gas can form an explosive mixture; smothering agents are recommended.

Firefighters should wear a self-contained breathing apparatus (specify PPE class). Burning nickel-metal hydride batteries can produce toxic fumes, including oxides of nickel, cobalt, aluminum, manganese, lanthanum, cerium, neodymium, and praseodymium. 

Storage of NiMH Batteries

NiMH batteries should be stored in cool, well-ventilated areas. A good practice is to place the batteries in individual bags or in bags that separate them from one another for storage. The NiMH battery terminals need to be taped with a non-conductive material so that the terminals do not contact other battery terminals. Here are some examples:

•           Electrical tape

•           Packing tape

•           Duct tape

* If batteries are going to be sent to a recycler, try not to cover the entire battery so that sorters can determine the type.

Handling and Storage of NiCd Batteries

Nickel-cadmium (NiCd) battery cells are filled with electrolytes and always need to be handled, stored, and transported with vents facing upwards. Avoid placing NiCd batteries in direct sunlight, high temperature, and high humidity. Store in a cool and dry place, between 10° to 30°C (50° to 86°F) and with a humidity of 45% to 85%. Do not connect a positive terminal to a negative terminal with electrically conductive materials. Do not store or operate the NiCd batteries in the same room where the lead-acid batteries are stored and operated. Keep NiCd batteries away from water. Do not store any other material on top of the batteries. Store the batteries in adequately ventilated areas.

Just like NiMH batteries, NiCd batteries need to have the terminals taped with nonconductive materials so that the terminals do not contact other battery terminals. Non-conductive material examples:

•           Electrical tape

•           Packing tape

•           Duct tape

* If batteries are going to be sent to a recycler, try not to cover the entire battery so that sorters can determine the type.

Lithium batteries must not go in the trash or into recycling containers. Lithium batteries need to be kept separate from other batteries and recycled materials.

Possible sources of lithium batteries include greeting cards, talking cards, external cell phone batteries, hoverboards, remote vacuums, power tools, earbuds, and other small electronic devices.  All these seemingly small devices can be damaged and cause fires in recycling or solid waste containers, trucks, compactors, etc.

Lithium Batteries need to have the terminals taped with non-conductive material so that the terminals do not contact other battery terminals. Examples of non-conductive materials:

• Electrical tape
• Packing tape
• Duct tape

* If batteries are going to be sent to a recycler, try not to cover the entire battery so that sorters can determine the type.

If the battery is reactive, place the battery in a non-combustible container, such as a metal container, away from any combustible materials. While doing this, please use caution and only move reactive batteries if it is safe to do so. The non-combustible container should also contain completely dry sand. It is important not to store lithium batteries in wet environments.

If a lithium-ion (Li-ion) battery overheats, hisses, or bulges, immediately move the device away from flammable materials and place it on a non-combustible surface. If possible, remove the battery and put it outdoors away from any other materials, and allow it time to self-extinguish. You may also put the device outside and keep it there for at least 6 hours. Contact the local fire department immediately and ask for advice on how to proceed.

A small Li-ion fire can be handled like any other combustible fire. For best results, use a foam extinguisher, Carbon Dioxide (CO₂), ABC dry chemical, powdered graphite, copper powder, or soda (sodium carbonate) to extinguish the fire. Halon is also used as a fire suppressant.

During thermal runaway in a Li-ion battery, the temperature can quickly rise to 500°C (932°F), at which point the cell catches fire or explodes. This is known as “venting with flame”; however, the term “rapid disassembly” is preferred in the battery industry. The exhausting gases are carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide, as well as gases formed by the vaporizing electrolyte.

A large Li-ion fire, such as an electric vehicle (EV) may need to burn out, as water is ineffective. Water with copper material can be used, but this may not be available and is costly for fire departments. When encountering a fire with a lithium-metal battery, only use a Class D fire extinguisher. Lithium-metal contains lithium that reacts with water and will make the fire worse. 

CAUTION: Do not use a Class D fire extinguisher to put out other types of fires; make certain regular extinguishers are also available. With all battery fires, allow ample ventilation while the battery burns itself out.

Many batteries have the recycle symbol, but they should not be placed in recycling containers. Manage them separately as a special recycled commodity.

Alkaline batteries do not need to be recycled; they can go into the trash because they do not contain mercury.

Nickel-Cadmium batteries and Nickel-Metal Hydride batteries need to be recycled and cannot go into the trash. These batteries need to have the terminals taped with not non-conductive tape like electrical tape, duct tape, or packing tape. Some retail hardware stores have takeback programs, and there are some companies online that will send a box and materials to your house to have the battery shipped to them. Only ship the NiCd and NiMH together.

Lead-acid batteries need to be recycled and cannot go into the trash. Lead-acid batteries can be recycled at almost all auto part stores and county convenience centers. These batteries need to be shipped separately from other types.  It is especially dangerous to ship them with Lithium batteries of any kind. During the recycling process for lead-acid batteries, they are crushed. When lithium batteries are crushed in the same container, they explode.

Lithium batteries need to be recycled and cannot go into the trash. It is also important to point out that placing Lithium batteries into regular recycling can cause fires at recycling facilities, causing property damage and possible injury. Take the time and separate your batteries for the safety of others from your regular recycling.

Store your batteries safely by taping off terminals, keeping the labels visible. Place your batteries into a thick plastic container for storage until you are ready to send them off for recycling.

For more information on recycling, please visit Call2Recycle or Batteries Plus.

The volume, weight, storage needs, and cost associated with effective e-waste management present special challenges but can be safely managed by local communities. The benefits of establishing local e-waste collection programs include:

• More convenient recycling options for community residents
• Decreased landfill costs and liabilities
• Increased recycling rates to help meet mandates established by Tennessee's Solid Waste Management Act

What to Know and Ask Before Designing a Community Response

Before planning a community e-waste collection program, it is necessary to learn about the basic information associated with electronic waste and determine the reasons for establishing a program. Electronic wastes contain metals and other materials that can be hazardous to human health and the environment if they are not properly managed. It is helpful to understand the hierarchy for handling e-waste. Best management practices encourage waste be handled in the most environmentally desirable method. A preferential waste management hierarchy for electronics and processing residuals:

• Reuse of electronic equipment, components, or demanufactured items
• Recycle equipment or components for material recovery
• Manage components for energy recovery
• Dispose of components via incineration

What Types of e-Waste will be Collected?

Generally, any electronic product with a circuit board or a battery will have hazardous characteristics. E-waste may include personal computers, monitors, televisions, keyboards, printers, telephones, typewriters, calculators, copiers, fax machines, and audio equipment.

Who is Eligible to Participate in a Community e-waste Collection Program?

Most local community collection programs are only available to households with a couple of pieces of electronic waste. Some programs allow non-profit organizations, schools, churches, etc., to participate for a small fee to recover program costs. Commercial and institutional generators are generally excluded and are required handle their e-waste directly.

Will There be a Fee for Participation?

There are costs incurred in all forms of waste handling - solid waste, hazardous waste, electronic waste, construction and demolition waste, etc. Participants should understand and calculate the cost associated with properly handling electronic waste.

NOTE: Illegal dumping of electronic waste also poses a serious cost to human health and the environment, as inappropriately handled toxic materials may impact groundwater, surface water, and soil.

Where Will the e-Waste Collection and Storage Take Place?

Challenges in collecting e-waste include weight, volume, and storage needs. An ideal collection site would meet the following minimum standards:

• Sheltered to protect e-waste and ensure operating equipment can be reused first, rather than recycled or processed
• Storage capacity to minimize transportation costs; a full trailer load is approximately 22 pallets or 20,000 pounds
• Heavy equipment to move palletized or boxed e-waste
• Accessible for loading and unloading

NOTE: At the present time, facilities that collect used or discarded electronics for recycling do not require a permit. For more information, please visit Recyclers and Recovered Materials Processors or contact your local Environmental Field Office at 1-888-891-TDEC.

How to Select a Contractor to Safely Manage e-Waste?

Electronics recyclers must operate according to best practice management. The Federal Electronics Challenge provides a Checklist for the Selection of Electronic Recycling Services related to best management practices, current service areas, and collection specifications. Responses to this survey should aid in the selection of an electronics recycler according to the best fit for your needs and environmental concerns.

Department Resources

e-Waste Recycling Activities - Common References

The e-waste industry offers a variety of recycling facilities and terminology. Here are some common terms used to describe services:

• Collection/hauler: Collects computers and televisions and transports them to another business for repair, reuse, or recycling. Usually works under contract with another business.
• Repair shop: Repairs computers and televisions for resale and removes operational and valuable components for resale to the highest level of reuse. May dispose of components and equipment that do not have reuse or resale value.
• Electronic Demanufacturer: Dismantles electronics for reusable and operational components to achieve scrap value, including for-profit and not-for-profit facilities.
• Private Asset Recovery Operation: Specializes in providing the highest return on discarded computer equipment. Usually from large-scale businesses. May also engage in demanufacturing and/or Cathode Ray Tube (CRT)/monitor processing.

I don't want to throw away my old TV and computer. What are my options?

Several manufacturers have take-back programs for older make and model computers. Some retail stores accept smaller electronic devices year-round for recycling. Communities host special events for recycling various electronic devices. Some charities across the state also accept functioning electronics as donations. Contact a local recycler. Some communities have recyclers or processors that accept consumer e-waste at their facilities - pick up or drop off. There may be a small fee for certain items, such as $5 for CRT/monitors.

Retail Programs

The following national retail chains offer in-store recycling of small personal electronic devices like cell phones, pagers, and PDAs, as well as inkjet cartridges. NOTE: Other local and regional-based stores not on this list also offer the same service. Best Buy, Office Depot/Office Max, Staples.

Special Community Events

Contact your local solid waste department.

Donation

For more information on E-scrap recycling, visit EPA's Cleaning Up Electronic Waste (E-Waste).  To view program information on numerous electronics reuse and donation programs visit, EPA's Electronics Donation and Recycling. 

Manufacturer Programs

Each manufacturer's take-back or recycling program is unique. Some are free while others charge a fee. You will double your recycling options if you research the programs offered by both the original equipment manufacturer for a device you are replacing along with what is offered by the manufacturer of a newly purchased electronic item. For example, you may be able to "trade-in" your old item and get a discount on the new one.​ See information from some major manufacturers: Apple, Dell, Gateway, Hewlett Packard, IBM, and Panasonic.

Helpful Hint

The Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC) sponsors the national program, Call2Recycle, which helps recycle used portable rechargeable batteries and old cell phones. Rechargeable batteries are commonly found in cordless power tools, cellular and cordless phones, laptop computers, camcorders, digital cameras, and remote control toys. Call2Recycle recycles the following battery chemistries: Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd), Nickel Metal Hydride (Ni-MH), Lithium-Ion (Li-ion), and Small Sealed Lead* (Pb). Call2Recycle is dedicated to keeping rechargeable batteries and cell phones out of our nation's solid waste stream and preserving natural resources by identifying locations that accept rechargeable batteries and cell phones for recycling. 

What are my options to manage e-scrap?

A business or institution may either:

1. Recycle e-scrap
2. Dispose of e-scrap properly after hazardous waste determinations have been made for the e-scrap materials under consideration.

Example: Cathode Ray Tube (CRTs) in monitors have high concentrations of lead and are considered hazardous waste. All hazardous waste must be disposed in a hazardous waste facility with proper handling and transport to the facility. All non-hazardous e-scrap may be disposed ofin a Class I landfill facility after the proper special waste review and approvals have been obtained.

How do I recycle my e-scrap?

Contact an e-scrap recycler and contract for the material to be removed and recovered.

How do I obtain an e-scrap special waste approval?

Tennessee regulations provide the mechanism for disposal of special wastes at 0400-11-01-.01(4). To obtain a special waste approval, the following steps should be followed:

1. Complete the special waste approval application.
2. Submit the application fee to the Environmental Field Office where the business or institution is located and the processing fee to the Division of Solid Waste Management’s Central Office.
3. After approval is granted, take the waste to the designated facility for disposal.

What are the primary challenges with hazardous waste disposal?

There are costs associated with all forms of disposal, and hazardous waste disposal can be expensive. The time, convenience, and financial cost difference between e-scrap recycling and hazardous waste disposal is a significant factor for business considerations. Businesses that first seek hazardous waste disposal options for their electronic materials often miss the eCycling potential that could recover and reuse their e-scrap.

According to Solid Waste Processing and Disposal (Rule 0400-11-01-.02)1(b)3(XV), the storage of solid waste that is recyclable material incidental to its recycling, reuse, reclamation, or salvage provided that upon request of the Commissioner, the operator demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Commissioner that there is a viable market for all stored waste and provided that all waste is stored in a manner that minimizes the potential for harm to the public and the environment. Recyclable material may not be stored for more than one year without written approval from the Division.

All E-scrap recyclers are compelled to submit a Recovered Materials Processing Facility Notification, CN-1605, if they are conducting business in the State of Tennessee. There is no fee associated with sending in this form.

TCA 68-211-802 states that a Recovered Materials Processing Facility (RMPF) is a facility engaged solely in the storage, processing, and resale or reuse of recovered materials. Recovered materials are defined as those materials that have been diverted or removed from the solid waste stream for sale, use, reuse, or recycling, whether or not requiring subsequent separation processing. Such material is not a solid waste. Recovered material processing facilities are not solid waste processing facilities, and therefore are not subject to Permit-by-Rule criteria.

Per Rule 0400-11-01-.02(1)(b)3(VI), the owner or operator must demonstrate, to the satisfaction of the Commissioner, that there is a viable market for the sale of, or a use or reuse of, the recovered material. Financial assurance will be required for an RMPF if the value of the recovered materials is less than the cost for an independent third party to remove them for proper management. All the recovered materials are to be stored or processed based on the maximum extent of the facility's operation. The financial assurance requirements must take into consideration the amounts and types of recyclable materials recycled at the facility, and the potential closure and post-closure costs associated with the recycling facility; such assurance may consist of posting of a surety bond in an amount sufficient to meet these requirements or other financial instrument, but in no case less than ten thousand dollars.

For more information, please see the Notification for Recovered Materials Processing Facilities page.