IT asset disposition is necessary, and successful e-waste disposition hinges on education and awareness. A large part of what makes e-waste so hazardous is the lithium-ion batteries that electronics contain, and many consumers are unaware of the risks that LIB-containing devices present when they are not disposed of properly. Without knowledge and awareness of battery recycling, proper precautions for battery fire prevention are not taken. ITAD providers offer various disposition services, including repair and safe battery removal. Battery recycling is critical to reducing battery fires, and Indiana recently received a grant to help spread awareness by expanding battery recycling in the community.
Allen County Expands Battery Recycling
The Allen County Department of Environmental Management recently announced a federal grant for battery recycling efforts. Funded by the Bipartisan Infrastructure law, the grant will contribute about 50 percent of the program’s cost for the next three years and help increase public awareness and education about the dangers of lithium-ion batteries. Additionally, educational training will be provided to first responders and employees of hazardous waste facilities who regularly handle LIBs. The grant will also cover increased battery recycling efforts and public education efforts on best practices for battery safety. As one of only seven counties in the U.S. to receive the grant, the Allen County Director of the Department of Environmental Management, Stacie Hubbert, said the funding will benefit the entire state in safe battery recycling practices.
Risks Presented by Lithium Ion Batteries
Battery fires have been the cause of destruction for many homes and businesses, most often in Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs). The most common battery fires are from lithium-ion batteries, known to catch fire or combust when damaged. One of the most common factors is damage to the battery when it overheats. Batteries swell when they get too hot, and any damage causes cell penetration and can trigger a thermal runaway. During a thermal runaway, the heat from a failed cell can spread to the next one, making it also thermally unstable. Battery fires are more difficult to put out, requiring special extinguishers designed for chemical fires, and can even re-ignite hours or days after being extinguished.
ITAD Partners Provide Safe E-Waste Disposal
Recycling through a professional disposition service is the safest and most responsible method for electronic waste disposal, including batteries. IT asset disposition companies like HOBI collect old electronics and ensure their safe and proper disposal. Partnering with an ITAD provider helps prevent environmental pollution and ensures professional battery removal with strict safety measures.
For more information about our ITAD services, call 817-814-2620 or contact HOBI at sales@hobi.com.