As part of the University at Buffalo’s overall commitment to environmental stewardship, UB Environment, Health and Safety administers a program to collect and recycle various types of batteries that are generated on campus. By recycling these batteries, we can protect our environment and save precious resources.

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

• Capen Libraries - UGL Circulation Desk
• Student Union Lobby Information Desk
• Bonner 332C Electrical Engineering
• Ellicott Complex & Governors Residence Hall Offices

South Campus

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

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:

• 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.