While the easiest thing to do is toss old batteries into a garbage can, proper battery disposal methods are vital. Batteries can be recycled safely, but it’s essential to do it correctly for safety reasons. Recycling batteries isn’t easy, especially since each type needs to be disposed of differently.
LITHIUM-ION BATTERIES
Lithium-ion batteries (Li-ion batteries) are standard in laptops, cell phones, and electric cars. They come in two forms: soft and dry. The increased usage of these batteries in our everyday lives has led to increased fires due to improper disposal of them.
Because they contain hazardous waste, it’s crucial to find a company that can recycle them properly.
There are two main recycling options for these batteries: pyrometallurgy and hydrometallurgy.
- Pyrometallurgy separates the mixed metal alloy of cobalt, copper, iron, and nickel.
- Hydrometallurgy recovers metals and ores from lithium-ion batteries.
LEAD ACID BATTERIES
Lead acid batteries can be recycled and can contain value. Some materials, like impure lead, can be returned to battery manufacturers and recycled into new batteries. Sulfuric acid can be turned into water. Eighty percent of the materials are turned into new batteries.
Putting these into the garbage would allow the lead and sulfuric acid in them to leach into our soil, water, and other valuable natural resources.
SINGLE-USE ALKALINE BATTERIES (AA, AAA, C, and D)
Christmas morning can be disappointing if you don’t have single-use batteries on hand for your kid’s newest toys. However, these batteries have corrosive chemicals that shouldn’t be dumped into landfills leaking into our soil. AA, AAA, C, and D alkaline batteries are household hazardous waste.
To properly recycle them, they should be placed into a rotary kiln to recover any zinc oxide in them. This can be reused in various plastics and ceramics.
BUTTON CELL BATTERIES
Button cell batteries contain mercury and therefore need to be disposed of properly. From hearing aids to watches and other small electronics, button batteries are pretty standard in our households.
Ingredients like mercury can be found in batteries, which is why it is important to recycle them. When we recycle, we prevent more mercury from being mined.
Securis Can Help!
If your business is unsure how to properly dispose of batteries inside your laptops and other devices, we can help!
If you live in the DC metro area, we host monthly recycling events at our Chantilly, VA warehouse, where you can drop off your old electronics*.
*There may be a fee for proper battery disposal
Christopher Madeira
Director of Marketing
ITAD Communications & Strategy Expert
Snapshot / Quick Stats
- 15+ years of experience in marketing strategy, brand development, and communications
- Specialized in IT asset disposition (ITAD) messaging for compliance-driven industries
- Former leadership roles at The Chronicle of Higher Education, CQ Press, and other respected publishers
- Key focus areas: Market Trends, Client Education, ITAD Compliance Messaging, Thought Leadership, SEO-Driven Strategy
Areas of Specialization
- Market Trends & Competitive Analysis – Tracks shifts in ITAD, resale, and sustainability markets to shape strategy and keep Securis ahead of industry developments.
- ITAD Compliance & Security Messaging – Crafts clear narratives that translate regulatory and data security requirements into approachable guidance for IT leaders.
- Client & Stakeholder Education – Builds educational resources and thought leadership content that empower clients to make informed ITAD decisions with confidence.
Professional Narrative (Career Journey)
Christopher Madeira is the Director of Marketing at Securis, where he shapes how the company communicates its mission of Secure, Accurate, and Sustainable IT Asset Disposition to regulated industries, government agencies, and enterprise clients. With more than 25 years of experience in marketing and communications, Christopher brings a unique perspective on how to bridge technical ITAD processes with clear, client-centered storytelling.
Before joining Securis, Christopher served in senior marketing roles across publishing and education organizations, including The Chronicle of Higher Education, CQ Press, and Congressional Quarterly. These positions gave him deep expertise in shaping brand positioning, leading cross-functional teams, and delivering content that informs and engages decision-makers.
At Securis, Christopher drives marketing strategies that not only build awareness but also educate IT leaders on data security, compliance, and sustainability best practices. His work ensures that Securis remains a trusted voice in the ITAD industry, aligning brand authority with the company’s core differentiators: Secure, Accurate, and Sustainable services.
Quote
“Clear communication makes complex ITAD issues approachable for IT leaders.”
Thought Leadership & Recognition
Christopher is the author of numerous Securis blog articles on compliance, sustainability, and ITAD strategy. He has also developed content campaigns that help IT decision-makers understand the evolving landscape of secure data destruction, ESG reporting, and value recovery.
Personal
A strategist at heart, Christopher is passionate about helping organizations cut through the noise and understand the real risks — and opportunities — in ITAD. Outside of his professional work, he enjoys exploring D.C.’s history, traveling, connecting with his community, and aviation photography.
Trust & Transparency
Christopher ensures that every piece of Securis’ external communication is not only accurate but also aligned with the certifications and compliance standards that define the company’s reputation. His commitment to transparency reinforces Securis’ standing as a trusted partner for IT asset disposition.
