Vermont partners with Call2Recycle to launch single-use battery recycling program

MIDDLESEX (Scrap Monster): The State of Vermont has decided to launch mandatory program to recycle single-use batteries including AA, C, D and other household alkaline batteries. The state has partnered with Atlanta-based Call2Recycle Inc. to develop and implement the program after consultations with battery manufacturers. Vermont thus becomes the first state to implement mandated single-use battery recycling plan.

As per the agreement, Call2Recycle will consult with 11 major battery manufacturers to formulate an initial plan by June 2015. The 11 companies are Ace Hardware Corp., Dorcy International, Duracell/The Gillette Co./Procter & Gamble, Energizer Battery Manufacturing, Interstate Batteries Recycling, Panasonic Corp., Polaroid, Rayovac/Spectrum Brands, RiteAid, Sony Electronics and Varta Microbattery. The final law is expected to go into effect in 2016.

According to Carl Smith, CEO & President, Call2Recycle, Americans throw away millions of single-use batteries used in consumer devices, power toys and flashlights every day. Call2Recycle’s partnership with Vermont state aims to produce an effective recycling program in the coming few months. This will make single-use battery recycling popular and commonly accepted in the State similar to plastic or paper recycling. It also expressed its willingness to expand the recycling program to other states as well.

Meantime, Call2Recycle also stated that it is engaged in discussions with stakeholders to expand the battery recycling efforts in the State. Since past 21 years, Call2Recycle has been collecting and recycling rechargeable batteries.

Founded in 1994, Call2Recycle-North America’s first and largest battery stewardship program-is a non-profit organization that collects and recycles batteries at no cost for municipalities, businesses and consumers.