How to host a battery recycling event

Recycling lithium-ion batteries can reduce the cost and environmental impact of our electronic devices, from small consumer rechargeables like cell phones, laptops, and power drills to larger applications in electric vehicles. Yet today, less than 5% of small-format lithium-ion batteries are recycled, leading to valuable critical minerals sitting unused in junk drawers and posing potential safety hazards. 

One of the simplest ways to address this issue is by creating accessible and safe battery disposal options—such as hosting a local recycling event. Watch our recent webinar or follow the instructions below to learn how to organize a battery collection event in your community to ensure proper recycling and keep batteries out of landfills. 

Secure a date and location

Choose a well-known, easily accessible location within your community— such as a school, church, grocery store, or downtown square or plaza. Convenience is key to encouraging battery recycling participation.  

Consider hosting your event alongside an existing community gathering, like a farmers’ market, to increase turnout. Once your event is confirmed, reach out to Redwood through recycle@redwoodmaterials.com to collaborate on the collection. 

Gather volunteers 

Invite friends, family, and neighbors, or representatives from local government, civic organizations, and clubs, like a Rotary Club, to help you host the event. A diverse team ensures smooth operations. Designate site captains to oversee logistics and assign roles, ensuring everything runs efficiently on event day. 

Promote your event 

Raising awareness is crucial for success. Leverage social media, community bulletin boards, and local news outlets. Post flyers at popular retail locations and engage with schools and nonprofits to spread the word. 

Collection & logistics

If you’re hosting an event with Redwood, we’ll provide barrels, boxes, and essential materials to ensure the safe and efficient collection of end-of-life batteries and devices. Watch the battery prep training video and follow our user-friendly barrel and box battery collection guide to get started.

Additional recycling methods

In addition to hosting an event, there are other ways to recycle your old batteries, such as mailing them to companies like Redwood or visiting a drop-off bin in your region. For more information on battery recycling check out Redwood’s consumer advocacy toolkit.