Batteries have long been a significant obstacle in the waste industry, and the increasing popularity of mobile electronics has led to a rise in the annual number of battery fires. E-mobility gadgets, such as e-bikes and e-scooters, have also seen an increase in use, leading to a surge in battery fires occurring in residential buildings and homes. This has inspired New York legislators to introduce a battery extended producer responsibility (EPR) update bill to the governor, following Connecticut’s governor, who signed a broad battery EPR law last week.
Lithium-Ion Batteries are in Most Electronics
Batteries are in every electronic device, but Lithium-Ion batteries are hazardous. LIBs undergo self-discharge, and if this process is not controlled, it can lead to a thermal runaway, also known as ‘venting with flame.’ A damaged cell can allow impurities to penetrate, leading to a significant electrical shortage. During a thermal runaway, the heat from a failed cell can spread to the next one, making it also thermally unstable. One of the most common factors contributing to battery fires stemming from cell penetration is battery damage, which can occur at any time. Overheating can cause battery swelling, eventually leading to a battery fire. LIBs can be extremely dangerous anywhere when damaged, and are becoming more of a danger in suburban areas where e-bikes and e-scooters are more popular.
Battery EPR Bill Implemented in New York
A bill was recently added to New York’s battery stewardship program that will add rechargeable e-mobility batteries for scooters and e-bikes. The bill aims to update the existing rechargeable battery EPR law, which was established in 2010, before these e-mobility devices were common. It will now be sent to Gov. Kathy Hochul’s desk for signature. Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont also signed an EPR law for batteries, which covers both rechargeable batteries for e-mobility devices and consumer batteries, such as those in laptops and other electronics.
Responsible E-Waste Disposal with ITAD
The safest and most responsible method for electronic waste disposal, including batteries, is recycling through a professional disposal service. HOBI is an R2v3, RIOS, and ISO 14001 certified IT asset management and disposition enterprise with more than 30 years of experience in the waste disposal industry. Our trained professionals undergo training and take special precautions when handling lithium-ion batteries during battery removal. HOBI prioritizes the safety of its employees through fire safety practices and the use of specialized tools during the disposition process.
For more information about our ITAD services, call 817-814-2620 or contact HOBI at sales@hobi.com.