Michigan wants to improve how batteries are recycled in the state.
Officials launched a new Battery Circulation Program last week, which aims to improve safety and recover more of the critical minerals found in some batteries.
This coverage is made possible through a partnership between IPR and Grist, a nonprofit environmental media organization.
Creating a “circular economy” in the state for batteries could increase the amount of critical minerals recovered like nickel, lithium and cobalt. They’re considered essential for industries such as energy, defense and advanced manufacturing.
“We want to see jobs and industries develop around keeping these materials out of the waste stream and back into the economy,” said Jeff Johnston, a spokesperson for the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes and Energy which is leading the new program.
State leaders are in the early stages of meeting with groups across sectors like manufacturing, recycling and education. A state startup accelerator will open applications this summer for projects about battery recycling.
Better recycling efforts could improve safety, too.
Lithium ion batteries — the rechargeable ones found in phones and electric vehicles — trigger deadly fires in homes and at waste facilities when they get hot or exposed to a lot of pressure.
An estimated 5,000 fires related to lithium batteries occur at waste and recycling facilities annually, according to the National Waste and Recycling Foundation.
“The issue is about safety. It's safety for the homeowner, safety for the waste employees, safety for your first responders, particularly fire departments,” said Michael E. Hoffman, the foundation’s president. “It’s getting these batteries out of our infrastructure so you're not having these fires every day.”
All batteries are recyclable — from the small ones used in flashlights to the lithium ion ones.
Local hardware and office stores typically take single-use, rechargeable and cellphone batteries. Online locators can help you find a store nearby.
It is illegal in Michigan to dump lead acid batteries, typically found in cars and boats, into state landfills. Businesses that sell these batteries are required to recycle them, so if you have one to dispose of, you can take it back to where you bought it.
You can also check your local recycling provider for drop-off locations. Some facilities may be open to county residents only. In Grand Traverse County, check the Take It Back Recycling Directory to find out where to recycle specific types of batteries.
