The city of Seattle has implemented a new ban that prohibits the disposal of batteries, items with embedded batteries, and electronics such as computers, monitors, and TVs in the garbage. This ban, which went into effect on January 1, is an important step towards protecting the environment and the public from the risks associated with improper battery disposal.
Seattle Public Utilities (SPU) announced the ban on Monday, citing the potential dangers that batteries pose to both waste collection staff and the community. Improperly disposed batteries can catch fire, putting not only the collection staff and their vehicles at risk, but also the facilities and the people in the surrounding areas.
The Seattle Fire Department has already responded to 79 fires related to lithium-ion batteries in the past two years, highlighting the urgency of this issue. Fire Chief Harold Scoggins emphasized the need for proper disposal of damaged and defective batteries to prevent further incidents.
Under this new ban, all types of batteries are prohibited from being thrown in the garbage. This includes small button cell and alkaline batteries, as well as the lithium-ion batteries commonly used in e-bikes and electric vehicles. Instead of disposing of these batteries in the garbage, customers are encouraged to drop them off at a Household Hazardous Waste Management facility free of charge.
By implementing this ban, Seattle is taking a proactive approach to minimizing the risks associated with battery disposal and ensuring the safety of its residents and the environment. It is crucial for everyone to be aware of the proper methods of battery disposal and to make use of the available resources to protect our community.