Connecticut Expands Battery Recycling with New Legislation

## Connecticut’s New Law shifts Battery Recycling Costs to Manufacturers

Connecticut is taking a important step towards improving battery recycling and reducing local financial burdens with a new law signed by Governor Ned Lamont in June. The legislation implements “extended producer duty” (EPR) for batteries, meaning manufacturers will now be responsible for establishing and funding a statewide battery disposal and recycling program.

Currently, the cost of collecting and recycling batteries falls on Connecticut’s cities and towns – a significant expense. Jennifer Heaton-Jones, Executive Director of the Housatonic Resources Recovery Authority, estimates a single hazardous waste event can cost around $50,000, encompassing collection, transportation to recycling facilities, and public outreach. “Municipalities lack the resources…to be able to educate a resident on a very specific item like batteries,” she explained.

The new law will require battery manufacturers to develop a state-approved plan for battery recycling, including convenient, free drop-off locations throughout Connecticut.It will encompass all types of batteries – single-use, rechargeable, and those found in devices like laptops, e-bikes, and scooters.

while the law takes effect this October, manufacturers have until 2027 to fully implement the collection programs. This approach mirrors existing EPR programs in the state for paint and mattresses, shifting the environmental responsibility beyond the point of sale.

The change also addresses a growing safety concern. Improper battery disposal can lead to fires, as demonstrated by a recent incident in North Haven where a lithium-ion battery exploded in a garbage truck, causing a fire and minor injuries to a sanitation worker. Fire Chief paul Januszewski emphasized the dangers, stating that battery fires are difficult to extinguish and produce intense heat and smoke.

Until the manufacturer-led programs are established, residents can locate nearby battery drop-off locations through Call2Recycle.org.

How will the extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) impact battery manufacturers operating in Connecticut?

Understanding the New Connecticut Battery Laws

Connecticut has considerably strengthened its commitment to environmental sustainability with the recent passage of new legislation focused on battery recycling.These laws, effective July 1, 2025, aim to address the growing problem of battery waste and promote a circular economy for valuable materials found within batteries. This expansion goes beyond previous efforts, placing greater responsibility on producers and consumers alike. The core of the legislation centers around extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for lithium-ion batteries, nickel-cadmium batteries, and other rechargeable battery types.

Key Provisions of the Legislation

The new laws introduce several crucial changes to Connecticut’s approach to battery disposal and battery management:

Producer Responsibility: Battery manufacturers are now legally obligated to finance and manage the collection, transportation, and recycling of their products at the end of their life. This shifts the financial burden away from municipalities and taxpayers.

Collection Network Expansion: The legislation mandates the establishment of a statewide network of convenient battery drop-off locations. This includes retail stores, municipal collection points, and potentially dedicated recycling facilities.

Recycling Targets: Specific,measurable recycling rates for different battery chemistries have been set. These targets will increase over time, driving continuous enhancement in battery recycling efficiency.

Consumer Education: A public awareness campaign will be launched to educate residents about proper battery disposal methods and the importance of battery recycling.

Prohibited Disposal: Disposing of covered batteries in the regular trash is now prohibited, encouraging participation in designated recycling programs.

Types of Batteries Covered

The legislation covers a broad range of battery types, including:

Lithium-ion batteries (Li-ion): Found in smartphones, laptops, power tools, and electric vehicles. These are a primary focus due to their increasing prevalence and potential fire hazard if improperly disposed of.

Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries: Commonly used in older electronics.

Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) batteries: Another type found in portable electronics.

lead-acid batteries: Primarily used in vehicles and backup power systems.

small Sealed Lead-Acid (SSLA) batteries: Used in emergency lighting and other applications.

Other Rechargeable Batteries: The legislation aims to be inclusive of emerging battery technologies.

Benefits of increased Battery Recycling

Expanding battery recycling in Connecticut offers numerous environmental and economic benefits:

Resource Recovery: Batteries contain valuable materials like lithium, cobalt, nickel, and manganese.Recycling batteries allows these resources to be recovered and reused, reducing the need for mining new materials.

Reduced Landfill Waste: Diverting batteries from landfills conserves landfill space and prevents harmful chemicals from leaching into the surroundings.

Environmental Protection: Proper battery disposal prevents the release of toxic substances that can contaminate soil and water.

Economic Growth: The battery recycling industry creates jobs and stimulates economic activity.

Reduced Fire Risk: Improperly discarded lithium-ion batteries can pose a fire hazard. Recycling mitigates this risk.

Practical tips for Connecticut Residents

Here’s how Connecticut residents can participate in the new battery recycling initiatives:

1. Locate Drop-Off Sites: Use the Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) website (https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP) to find a convenient battery drop-off location near you.
2. Prepare Batteries for recycling: Tape the terminals of lithium-ion batteries and 9-volt batteries to prevent short circuits and potential fires.
3. Do Not Discard in Trash: Remember that it is indeed now illegal to throw covered batteries in the regular trash.
4. Retailer Take-back Programs: Manny retailers that sell batteries are required to offer take-back programs for used batteries.
5. Municipal Collection Events: Check with your local municipality for scheduled battery collection events.

the Role of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR)

The EPR component of the legislation is a game-changer. By making producers financially responsible for the end-of-life management of their products, it incentivizes them to design batteries that are easier to recycle and to invest in recycling infrastructure. This approach has been successfully implemented in other states and countries, demonstrating its effectiveness in increasing recycling rates and reducing environmental impact. The Connecticut DEEP will oversee the implementation of the EPR programs and ensure producers are meeting their obligations.

challenges and Future Outlook

While the new legislation is a important step forward, challenges remain. Ensuring adequate funding for recycling infrastructure, establishing a robust collection network, and educating the public will be crucial for success. Future developments may include:

Advanced recycling Technologies: Investment in innovative battery recycling technologies that can recover a higher percentage of valuable materials.

Standardization of Battery Designs: Encouraging manufacturers to adopt standardized battery designs to simplify the **recycling