Under the expanded program, Vermonters can now recycle most primary (single-use) and rechargeable batteries weighing up to 25 pounds (or 2,000 watt hours). This includes batteries from common household devices and battery-powered products such as remotes, toys, flashlights, cordless power tools, portable chargers, drones and more.
The expansion also includes medium-format batteries, such as larger rechargeable batteries used in electric and cordless lawn mowers, snowblowers, e-bikes and e-scooters. These batteries are typically larger than a cordless tool battery but smaller than an EV battery.
The program addresses growing safety concerns associated with improper battery disposal – particularly fires at recycling and waste facilities caused by lithium-ion batteries – while continuing Vermont’s leadership in solid waste management and environmental stewardship.
“For the safety of our solid waste workers, our communities and the environment, it’s critical that batteries are properly managed,” said Josh Kelly for the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources. “With the expansion of Vermont’s battery recycling program, safely recycling batteries is now easier than ever. Vermonters can recycle most single-use and rechargeable batteries up to 25 pounds – or 2,000 watt hours – at more than 100 convenient locations across the state.”
What the Expansion Includes
Under the expanded battery recycling program, the following batteries are now accepted:
- Most primary (single-use) batteries, including alkaline and lithium primary batteries
- Rechargeable batteries, such as lithium-ion, nickel-metal hydride, and sealed lead-acid batteries
- Batteries weighing up to 25 pounds or rated up to 2,000 watt hours
- More than 100 collection sites are available statewide at participating retailers, municipal facilities, and other approved locations.
Published May 2026