Battery recycling

UW recycles all types of batteries. Batteries cannot be placed in the trash because they contain corrosive acids and toxic metals. Businesses, including UW, are also required to recycle alkaline batteries even though households can place them in the trash.

e-media bin

If you have less than five pounds of batteries, take them to the nearest Emedia program to recycle batteries as well as cell phones, "electronic media" such as CDs, and injet cartridges. Emedia bins are available in most libraries and public areas on the Seattle campus. There are two bins at UW Bothell (in the library lobby and upstairs in the Media Center) and one at Cascadia Community College (in CC1, on the first floor in the main lobby.) There are two at UW Tacoma (in front of Enrollment Services in GWP 102 and in the office at MAT 004.)

To request a special collection of more than five pounds of batteries, including large research and heavy equipment batteries and the occasional laptop battery that won't fit in the eMedia bins, fill out and mail or fax us a One-Time Battery Collection Request (PDF).

blue battery recycling bin

Some areas, such as shops and clinics, need frequent battery collection. We set up these locations with a three-gallon blue battery recycling bin and lid. If you have one of these bins, when your bin is nearly full, fill in and send the online Battery Bin Collection Request. If you have additional batteries to be collected at the same time, let us know on the request.

Batteries rarely leak, but if you find a leaking battery, put it in a plastic bag or container. Wear gloves and wash your hands after handling. Fill out and send to EH&S a Chemical Collection Request (PDF) and EH&S will pick it up as hazardous waste. For a leaking lead acid battery (in UPS units and similar), we advise that you neutralize the leaking acid with baking soda (sodium bicarbonate.) Wear gloves and wash your hands afterwards, and be careful with your clothing and shoes. Put the battery and spill debris (paper towels, gloves) in a container and fill out the request as above for battery and debris. If you have any questions, call the EH&S Spills Advice Line at 206.543.0467 during business hours.