What batteries and devices can I recycle?

Batteries come in a wide range of chemistries, each with unique properties and applications. Among these chemistries, rechargeable batteries like Ni-MH and Li-ion are the most easily recycled due to their design and materials.

• Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries: Widely used in smartphones, laptops, electric vehicles, and power banks, Li-ion batteries offer high energy density and long lifespan. They require careful handling and disposal due to the risk of fire if damaged or improperly recycled.

• Nickel-Metal Hydride (Ni-MH) batteries: Commonly found in cordless phones, digital cameras, power tools, and portable gaming devices, Ni-MH batteries are rechargeable and have a higher energy density than Ni-Cd batteries. They are considered relatively safe and environmentally friendly.

• Alkaline batteries: Found in everyday household items like remote controls, toys, and flashlights, alkaline batteries are non-rechargeable and typically composed of zinc and manganese dioxide.

• Nickel-Cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries: Ni-Cd batteries are rechargeable and contain toxic cadmium. Due to environmental concerns, their use has declined, and they are being replaced by newer battery chemistries.

To determine the chemistry of your battery, you can:

• Check the label or packaging: Most batteries will have their chemistry type printed on the label or packaging. Look for abbreviations such as "Li-ion," "Ni-MH," or "Alkaline," "Ni-Cd.”

• Look for markings on the battery: Some batteries may have markings or symbols indicating their chemistry. For example, Ni-Cd batteries often have a "Cd" symbol, while Ni-MH batteries may have "Ni-MH", or "NiMH" printed on them.

What does Redwood accept for recycling?

Redwood accepts rechargeable devices that contain lithium-ion batteries, such as:

• Cell phones

• Laptops

• Tablets

• Cordless power tool batteries

• Electric toothbrushes

• Wireless headphones

• Wireless speakers or virtual assistant devices

• Car key fob batteries

• Rechargeable vacuum cleaner batteries

• Any other rechargeable device with a lithium-ion battery (Li-ion)

*Recycling through Redwood’s consumer program is intended for individuals only. Items that present a health or safety hazard are not accepted.

Redwood does not accept alkaline or other single use batteries for recycling.

What does Redwood do with my battery?

Redwood has proven technology and existing facility operations that mechanically separate, recycle, and refine batteries down to their core elements and reuses them to make battery grade materials. On average, Redwood’s technology can recover more than 95% of materials like nickel, cobalt, copper, aluminum, lithium and graphite in a lithium-ion battery. These materials can then go directly back into the supply chain to make batteries for new electric vehicles and energy storage products. Learn more about our process on our website.