Batteries power our lives every day. They also become dangerous when they’re not recycled right. If something lights up, moves on its own or makes a sound, it has a battery and should not go in your carts.
Batteries can catch fire or explode in your cart, dumpster or the back of trash and recycling trucks. Fires can start at landfills and recycling facilities where these materials end up. The safety of our operators is our top priority, and we need your help to keep everyone safe.
Besides batteries, keep other household hazardous waste out of your carts. Some common examples include:
- Aerosol cans that are not fully empty
- Automotive fluids and oil filters
- Cleaning products
- Cooking oil and grease
- Fluorescent light bulbs
- Mercury (thermometers, etc.)
- Paint and paint thinners
- Pesticides and herbicides
- Pool chemicals
- Propane cylinders
Recycle batteries and household hazardous waste at the Recycle & Reuse Drop-off Center. Austin and Travis County residents should schedule a free appointment online or through the Austin Recycles app. You can take batteries to Austin Public Library branches [including Recycled Reads] or other drop-off locations.
Commit to keeping batteries and other hazardous waste out of your carts this year to help our sanitation workers stay safe.
Excerpt and featured image from Austin Recycles newsletter Winter 2023
- Georgetown, Texas accepts car batteries and only at their Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) facility.
- Round Rock, Texas accepts car batteries and only at their Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) Disposal facility.
- New Braunfels does not offer an battery recycling program.
- San Marcos accepts batteries at their Household Hazardous Waste Drop-off (HHW).