Report highlights consumer knowledge gaps in lithium battery recycling

In observance of America Recycles Day, Nov. 15, Charlotte, North Carolina-based battery recycler Cirba Solutions has issued a new report highlighting consumer insights on lithium battery recycling, "The Consumers Lithium Landscape."

The company says the survey’s findings provide key insights into the lack of consumer awareness regarding safe battery recycling.

According to the survey, 53 percent of Americans are unaware of how to properly recycle lithium batteries, while 41 percent do not know the dangers of improper disposal. The company says this highlights a societal need for greater education and action as the U.S. transitions toward more sustainable energy solutions. 

“Proper lithium battery recycling is crucial for enhancing safety in our recycling streams, recovering key battery materials for new batteries, creating a circular economy and supporting sustainable future energy systems," Cirba Solutions says.

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Improper disposal of lithium batteries in landfills poses safety and environmental concerns, with Cirba noting that lithium-ion batteries are found in everyday consumer products such as cell phones and laptops. The company claims the average American owns nine lithium battery-powered devices, and 98 percent use the devices daily. Despite this, the report says 55 percent of respondents do not know where to recycle these batteries, and 37 percent are unaware they can be recycled at all. Of those who said they understand the batteries should not be disposed of in regular trash bins, 45 percent responded they still do because of a lack of understanding about where to dispose of them.

“Despite the widespread use of lithium batteries, there is a significant gap in understanding how to safely handle and dispose of them,” says Karen Gay, manager of community engagement at Cirba Solutions. “Even when people are aware that batteries need to be recycled, the lack of clear and accessible information on how and where to do so is a barrier. Cirba Solutions is committed to bridge this gap through education and outreach. This data highlights just how important this effort is for protecting both communities and the environment.”

In addition to covering consumer devices, the report dives into the rapid growth of electric vehicles (EVs) and reveals similar knowledge gaps in the safe recycling of EV batteries. This research includes:

• Growing EV demand: The report claims interest is surging, with 12 percent of respondents saying they already drive an EV, and 37 percent of non-EV-driving respondents saying they plan to buy one within the next 12 to 36 months. High gas prices are pushing 70 percent to seek fuel savings, while 69 percent say they aim to reduce emissions, and 56 percent say they are drawn to “cutting edge” automotive technology.
  
• Improving safety and education: Despite rising interest in EVs, the report claims 59 percent of respondents do not know how to recycle their batteries, 47 percent are unsure of their battery’s lifespan and 48 percent do not know when to replace it.

“As we celebrate America Recycles Day, it’s vital to emphasize that recycling old, used and damaged batteries is an environmental responsibility and also a crucial step in enhancing our circular economy,” Cirba Solutions Chief Commercial Officer Jay Wago says. “With the expected rise in EV adoption and electronic devices that charge our everyday lives, we must address the educational gap surrounding battery recycling practices. By raising awareness and educating consumers, we can create a cleaner and safer world.”

The survey was conducted online by Kickstand between July 24-28. It reflects the opinions of 601 American consumers. Cirba Solutions says the survey was conducted at 95 percent confidence with a +/- 4 percent margin of error.

In an effort to improve community education on the subject of recycling spent batteries, Cirba Solutions launched the SustainABILITY 10,000 initiative in April, committing to 10,000 hours of community engagement and education in communities across North America. The company says the campaign raises awareness of battery recycling opportunities.