WM, formerly known as Waste Management and one of North America's largest environmental services providers, has updated its Recycle Right® guidelines to add a new rule that affects virtually every household: batteries should never be placed in recycling bins or trash containers.

The change comes as battery-powered devices become increasingly common in everyday life and as waste and recycling facilities nationwide continue to face growing safety concerns tied to improperly discarded batteries.

For families in Sableridge, the update serves as a reminder that even small household items can have a significant impact on community safety, sanitation operations, and the workers who handle waste every day.

Why the New Battery Rule Matters

According to WM, batteries can create serious fire hazards when they are damaged, crushed, punctured, or exposed to heat during the collection and processing of waste and recyclables.

The National Waste & Recycling Association recently reported that an estimated 5,000 battery-related fires occur annually at recycling facilities across the United States. The organization also noted that battery-related fires happen nearly every day in waste collection trucks, transfer stations, recycling facilities, or landfills somewhere in the country.

"Batteries don't belong in recycling or trash; they're a fire risk that puts workers, first responders, collection vehicles and facilities in danger," said Ryan Nordt, Executive Director of Recycling Operations for WM.

While many residents may think of batteries as harmless household items, the increasing use of lithium-ion batteries has changed the conversation around disposal. These batteries can generate intense heat and are notoriously difficult to extinguish once ignited.

The issue affects not only recycling centers but also collection vehicles and the employees who serve communities like Sableridge each week.

What Types of Batteries Are Included?

The new rule applies to both traditional household batteries and rechargeable batteries.

Common alkaline batteries include those found in:

• Television remotes
• Wall clocks
• Toys
• Flashlights

Lithium-ion batteries are commonly found in:

• Smartphones and tablets
• Electric toothbrushes
• Shavers
• Bluetooth trackers
• Power tools
• E-bikes and e-scooters
• Portable electronics
• Musical greeting cards and other novelty products

As more devices rely on rechargeable battery technology, proper disposal has become an increasingly important part of responsible waste management.

WM's Four Recycle Right® Rules

WM continues to encourage residents to recycle correctly by following four simple guidelines:

1. Recycle Empty, Dry Items

Only place clean bottles, cups, cans, tubs, paper, and cardboard in recycling carts.

2. Keep Food and Liquids Out

Containers should be emptied before being recycled.

3. Don't Bag Recyclables

Loose recyclables are easier and safer for sorting facilities to process.

4. No Batteries in Recycling or Trash

All batteries should be removed from household waste streams and taken to approved collection locations.

For residents of Sableridge, following these guidelines helps improve recycling efficiency while reducing contamination and safety risks.

Where Should Batteries Be Taken?

Instead of placing batteries in trash or recycling carts, WM recommends using approved battery recycling and disposal programs.

Residents can visit BatterySafetyNow.org to locate nearby battery drop-off sites and learn more about proper battery handling and disposal. Some municipalities, hardware stores, retailers, and fire departments may also offer battery collection programs.

Checking local disposal guidelines before discarding batteries can help ensure they are handled safely and responsibly.

A Growing Challenge as Battery Use Increases

Industry data shows that lithium-ion battery demand is expected to continue rising sharply over the coming years as electric transportation, smart devices, and rechargeable household products become more widespread.

That growth makes public education increasingly important. What may seem like a simple battery tossed into a cart can create significant risks once it enters the waste stream.

For communities like Sableridge, the updated guidance reflects a broader effort to improve recycling safety, protect workers, reduce fire risks, and keep local collection services operating smoothly.

What Residents Should Remember

The takeaway is simple: if an item contains a battery, remove the battery before disposal and never place loose batteries in recycling or trash carts.

As battery-powered devices continue to become part of everyday life, small actions at home can help protect sanitation workers, emergency responders, recycling facilities, and the broader community.

Residents can learn more about proper recycling practices by visiting WM's Recycle Right® program and reviewing local recycling guidelines.

Stay tuned to My Neighborhood News for more community updates, household tips, and important service information affecting Sableridge residents.

By Tiffany Krenek, My Neighborhood News 

Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.