The Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County says batteries can be problematic for recycling and disposal and is seeking to prevent batteries from ending up in the trash. Porter County residents can recycle batteries across all three Porter County Compost Sites and also at upcoming household hazardous waste collection events. The Valparaiso Compost Site is located on West Lincolnway, the Portage Compost Site is located on U.S. 12, and the Boone Grove Compost Site is located on County Road 400 West. For complete list of battery recycling locations throughout Porter County visit www.PorterCountyRecycling.org .
In today’s retail market many common household and automotive batteries contain small trace amounts of toxic chemicals which often include cadmium, lead, sulfuric acid and lithium, the District said in a news release, noting that whether it’s a standard alkaline AA battery, a rechargeable cell phone battery, or an automotive battery, precaution and proper steps should take place in disposal.
“Improperly thrown out batteries can easily short-circuit, overheat, and spark fires fast,” said Keri Marrs Barron, Executive Director of Recycling & Waste Reduction District of Porter County, noting that dead or burned out batteries are commonly tossed in the trash or recycle bin. “This action is incredibly detrimental and hazardous to the environment,” said Barron.
The Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County has partnered with several local commercial businesses, municipalities, and fire stations for county-wide battery recycling drop-off.
“Across Porter County we’ve connected with many local groups and vendors to add ease with recycling batteries. Porter County residents have several drop-off locations to choose amongst for quick and easy battery recycling,” Barron said. “Our team is always here to help. We ask all Porter County residents to reach out with questions on how to safely dispose of batteries and also with questions on recycling best practices.” For more information on Porter County battery recycling locations, contact the Recycling and Waste Reduction District of Porter County at (219)-465-3694, or visit www.PorterCountyRecycling.org .
