North Carolina to ban lithium-ion batteries from landfills starting Dec. 1
NORTH CAROLINA (WWAY) — North Carolina will prohibit lithium-ion batteries from being disposed of in state landfills beginning Dec. 1, 2026.
The change means residents will not be allowed to place lithium-ion batteries in household trash or regular recycling bins.
Lithium-ion batteries are commonly found in smartphones, laptops, electric vehicles, e-bikes and scooters, cordless vacuums, power tools, toys and other devices.
The batteries store a large amount of energy in a small space. If damaged or improperly used, they can overheat and potentially release flammable vapors, smoke or cause a fire.
Officials recommend taking lithium-ion batteries and devices containing them to designated battery collection locations rather than putting them in household trash or recycling.
How to safely use lithium-ion batteries
Residents are encouraged to follow several safety precautions:
- Use the charging cord and charger that came with the device or one approved by the manufacturer.
- Charge devices on a hard surface rather than a bed, couch or other soft surface.
- Keep batteries at room temperature when possible.
- Unplug devices once they are fully charged.
- Charge larger devices, such as e-bikes and power tools, outside when possible.
- Stop using a device if it becomes unusually hot, swells, smells unusual, leaks, smokes or makes popping or hissing sounds.
Lithium-ion batteries are rechargeable and are used in a wide range of consumer products because of their energy efficiency and ability to store large amounts of energy.
The batteries can catch fire for several reasons, including physical damage, electrical damage, overcharging, improper charging equipment, extreme temperatures and product defects.
Residents are encouraged to safely dispose of lithium-ion batteries at designated collection sites rather than placing them in trash or recycling bins.
