Rumpke offers new options for lithium-ion battery recycling

Rumpke Waste & Recycling has teamed up with the Cincinnati Recycling & Reuse Hub as well as local fire departments to make properly disposing of lithium-ion batteries easier for residents.

“Lithium-ion batteries are known fire starters if improperly handled,” said Jeff Snyder, director of recycling, Rumpke Waste & Recycling. “Annually, we have fires in our collection vehicles as well as our facilities from lithium-ion batteries incorrectly placed in trash or recycling containers. Lithium-ion batteries don’t belong in curbside containers – and most people don’t know how to properly handle them.”

As part of the partnership, the two organizations have set up battery collection points at local fire departments throughout Hamilton County. “Fire departments are often located in the heart of each community,” said Colleen McSwiggin, executive director, Cincinnati Recycling & Reuse Hub. “Having drop-off centers for batteries at the fire stations will make it convenient for residents to participate as well as help residents associate the issue with fires occurring from improper disposal with the solution.”

There are currently four fire stations participating in the pilot program, including:

• Cincinnati Fire Department Hyde Park Station #46, 2731 Erie Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45208
• Cincinnati Fire Department Lunken Station #18, 478 Wilmer Ave., Cincinnati, OH 45226
• St. Bernard Fire Department Station #91, 4200 Vine Street, 45217
• Colerain Township Fire Department Station #25, 3251 Springdale Road, Cincinnati, OH 45251
• Green Township Fire Department Station #53, 6303 Harrison Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45247

Rumpke and the Cincinnati Recycling & Reuse Hub hope to continue to grow the program to include more fire stations. Residents can also check with their local solid waste district for additional disposal options.