Generally, most batteries used on campus fall into three categories, alkaline, rechargeable, and sealed lead acid-commonly used for battery backup applications. All of these are being collected and recycled by UB EHS. Listed below are details on how you can help the environment by recycling your spent and used batteries.

How does UB collect and recycle alkaline batteries?

The vast majority of batteries generated at the University at Buffalo are of the alkaline type. They may carry brand names such as Duracell or Energizer. EH&S will collect the following types of alkalines and carbon zinc batteries:

• Alkaline or Carbon Zinc AAA, AA, C, D, etc. 
• Alkaline or Carbon Zinc 9 Volt (these must be placed separately in plastic bags or have their terminals taped with non conductive tape before placing them in the pails)

UB EH&S has provided battery recycling receptacle pails (shown above) at various campus locations for your convenience. Please place only your alkaline batteries in these receptacles!

North Campus

• 142 Center for the Arts
• Bonner 332C Electrical Engineering
• Capen Libraries - UGL Circulation Desk
• Ellicott Complex & Governors Residence Hall Offices
• Ellicott Complex, 165 Millard Fillmore Academic Center
• Student Union Lobby Information Desk

South Campus

• 14 Parker Hall - Radiation Safety Office
• 111 Sherman Hall
• 220 Winspear - EH&S Lobby
• Goodyear Residence Hall Office
• Harriman Lobby information Desk

More battery drop-off locations coming soon.

Many batteries contain toxic and hazardous materials such as mercury, lead, cadmium, silver, and sulfuric acid. The US EPA has designated these as universal wastes rather than hazardous wastes with the goal of promoting recycling. Although not hazardous wastes, these batteries must still be managed in an environmentally correct manner. They cannot be placed in the regular trash.

Examples of Universal Waste batteries collected and recycled include:

These type of batteries are collected in special boxes designated for Universal Waste (as shown above) and must be placed separately in a provided plastic baggie. Do NOT place alkaline or carbon zinc batteries in these boxes! Boxes are located at the following locations:

• 111 Sherman Hall, South Campus
• EH&S Offices, 220 Winspear Ave, South Campus
• Student Union Information Desk, North Campus

Alternatively, you my recycle these type of batteries at one of the local area stores that provide this service (Best Buy, The Home Depot, Sears, etc.).

What about batteries used in vehicles such as cars, trucks, motorcycles and heavy equipment?

Batteries of this type will not be collected under this program but are managed separately. Contact UB EHS are 829-3301 for further information.

Battery recycling receptacles are intended to be used for intact and non leaking batteries only. Trash, gloves, paper, plastic (other than plastic bags containing batteries), toner cartridges, chemicals, etc. are not to be placed in them. If you have a non intact or leaking battery please contact the EH&S office at 829-3301 for further assistance.