What is the Call2Recycle program?
Call2Recycle® is the only free rechargeable battery and cell phone collection program in North America. Since 1994, Call2Recycle has diverted 50 million pounds of rechargeable batteries from the local landfills and established a network of 30,000 recycling drop-off locations. Call2Recycle is operated by the non-profit Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation (RBRC).
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How much does it cost to participate in the program?
It's free to participate in the Call2Recycle program.
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How is the program funded?
Members of the rechargeable battery and portable electronic product industry fund the rechargeable battery recycling program by paying a licensing fee to use Call2Recycle’s Battery Recycling Seals – these are called our licensees. The battery seals are printed on rechargeable batteries. Cell phone recycling is partially-funded by the resale of refurbished cell phones.
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What types of rechargeable batteries or cell phones can be recycled?
Call2Recycle accepts just about any kind of rechargeable battery, weighing up to 11 lbs or 5 kilogram. The program accepts all cell phones, with or without the cell phone battery.
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Where can I recycle my used rechargeable batteries and old cell phones?
There are about 30,000 collection sites in the U.S. and Canada where you can drop off used batteries and cell phones. Use our zip code/postcal code locator or call the consumer helpline, 877.2.RECYCLE (877.273.2925). Ask an employee or the customer service desk at any collection site for assistance locating our recycling box.
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What are the recycled materials from the rechargeable batteries and old cell phones made into?
All of the rechargeable batteries and cell phones collected through the Call2Recycle program are recycled and used to create other types of materials, including new batteries, stainless steel products and more. None of the material broken down from the recycling of rechargeable batteries and cell phones makes its ways into the landfills.
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Why is it important to recycle rechargeable batteries and cell phones?
Consumers use an average of six wireless products in their day-to-day lives, and the average cell phone is replaced (or upgraded) every 18 to 24 months. That's a lot of rechargeable batteries and cell phones, so we want to make sure that they are properly disposed of and don’t end up in landfills.
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Do you recycle car batteries?
No. Please contact the car battery manufacturer, battery retailer or auto service center for information on recycling automotive batteries.
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Is it illegal to throw away my rechargeable batteries or cell phones in the regular garbage?
Certain states have laws that make it illegal to dispose of rechargeable batteries and cell phones. We recommend doing your part to promote environmental conservation by recycling rechargeable batteries and cell phones regardless of your state’s policy. For more information about your specific state, visit the recycling laws and regulations page.
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Do you recycle single-use/non rechargeable batteries?
We do not accept single-use/non rechargeable batteries for recycling in the U.S. at this time. However, all drop-off locations in Canada’s British Columbia and Ontario provinces accept any household battery (including alkaline).
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Why should my organization participate in the Call2Recycle program?
There are several reasons to participate: 1) Call2Recycle can help boost your overall corporate sustainability efforts, 2) Our program is an easy and convenient way to increase store traffic by attracting consumers who want to recycle batteries that are also likely to buy replacement batteries, and 3) A federal law, the Mercury Containing and Rechargeable Battery Management Act, requires manufacturers and marketers of Nickel Cadmium (Ni-Cd) batteries and products powered by these batteries to provide a collection and recycling program for them. Various states have also passed laws regarding the disposal of Ni-Cd and Small Sealed Lead Acid batteries. To learn more about laws in your specific state, visit the recycling laws and regulations page.
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How much does it cost for my company to participate in the program?
It's free to participate in the Call2Recycle program.
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How does a portable product or battery manufacturer get involved in the program?
You can register to become a licensee. Learn more about becoming an industry steward.
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Can licensees register to receive collection boxes?
Yes. If you are a licensee and would like to receive collection boxes, please fill out the Sign Up Form.
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Are there any weight limits or other restrictions on batteries?
All rechargeable batteries are subject to a maximum individual battery weight of 11 pounds or 5 kilogram. There are no shipment weight limits in the United States. In Canada, any single shipment, regardless of the number of containers used, must not exceed 500 kilograms.
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Where can I obtain program safety and shipping guidelines?
Please visit the Safety and Shipping Requirements page.
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How will consumers know where to recycle their used portable rechargeable batteries and old cell phones?
Consumers can find a recycling drop-off location by using the zip code/postal code locator on the website or by calling the toll free help line, 877.2.RECYCLE.
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I ran out of boxes or bags. How can my company order more?
Call2Recycle automatically sends new collection boxes and support materials when our system informs us that your quantities are low (allow 2-3 weeks for delivery). However, should a participant need additional materials, simply submit an Order Supply Form or call toll free at 877.723.1297.
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Who do I contact if I have any program questions?
Email Customer Service or or call 877.723.1297 with questions about the program.
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