Bi-Mart Stores in Lane County, OR Launch In-Store Battery Recycling Pilot Program

Bi-Mart stores in Lane County, Ore. are setting up an in-store battery recycling pilot program thanks to grant funding from the county.

The new program will set up recycling boxes in stores across the county for a year.

“Recycling batteries makes a lot of business and environmental sense as batteries contain many metals needed for lithium-ion battery production, which is critical for things like electric vehicle adoption,” said Maya Buelow, a Lane County waste reduction specialist.

“Additionally, improper battery disposal can create health and safety risks, including fires that damage critical waste management infrastructure and put folks at risk.”

The boxes will accept most single-use batteries and most rechargeable batteries. Bi-Mart employees will be trained in battery identification, handling, and processing.

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