Okotoks residents will have a new, convenient way to recycle household batteries this fall as the Town launches its first curbside battery collection pilot, running September 14 to 25.
Residents are encouraged to start saving used household batteries now so they’re ready to set them out for collection during the pilot.
The Town is partnering with Call2Recycle Canada on this innovative three-year pilot, making Okotoks only the second community in Alberta to offer curbside battery collection through the organization. The pilot will run for two weeks each fall and is fully funded by Call2Recycle, with no additional cost to taxpayers.
“This pilot brings safe battery recycling right to residents’ doorsteps, which makes it easier for people to take part and keep batteries out of carts where they can create serious safety risks,” said Jason London, Waste Solutions manager for the Town of Okotoks. “It’s a simple action that helps protect our collection crews, facilities and environment, while supporting a more convenient recycling service for the community.”
Batteries are considered household hazardous waste and should never be thrown into the trash or regular recycling bins, as they can pose significant safety risks to Town staff, equipment and facilities. Batteries are a leading cause of fires in waste trucks, landfills and recycling facilities and can ignite or explode when disposed of improperly.
The Okotoks Eco Centre and participating private drop-off locations will continue to accept batteries year-round for residents who prefer not to wait for the curbside collection event.
