“Stop the Spark” $1.7 Million Project Infused with Federal Investment Sparks Growth in Allen County, IN’s Battery Recycling Program

SEATTLE (Waste Advantage): Allen County Department of Environmental Management, together with Purdue University Fort Wayne, is awarded a prestigious grant from the U.S. Department of Energy. Allen County is one of seven communities in the entire country selected to receive the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funds to expand battery recycling.

With federal cost share of approximately 50% over the course of three years, this grant will enable significant public awareness and education campaigns resulting in a reduction in fire incidents, increased battery recycling and a more knowledgeable public on the best practices of battery safety.

The Allen County Board of Commissioners shared, “The Allen County Department of Environmental Management is ahead of the curve in so many areas. Their efforts with recycling and education keep hundreds of tons of waste out of our landfills and help maintain the natural resources of our county. We are grateful for the ACDEM team and the laborious work they invested in compiling the federal grant application. The programming, education and recycling opportunities that will come about because of this prestigious grant will put Allen County on the forefront – in the state and in the county – for the care and decommissioning of lithium-ion batteries.”

Allen County is leading the charge in state and nation for battery safety and recycling. Stacie Hubbert, Director of the Allen County Department of Environmental Management shares, “We’re honored to be one of only seven counties nationwide to receive this prestigious grant, reinforcing our leadership in battery safety and recycling. This funding will not only benefit Allen County but residents across the state by educating and promoting safe battery practices and recycling these batteries that power our daily lives.”

Household batteries contribute potentially hazardous compounds to the waste stream polluting the earth, water and air. This statewide battery recycling initiative will engage residents on the importance of environmental protection and resource conservation by properly disposing of their everyday batteries.

The recycling campaign, “Stop the Spark,” will bring public awareness to the dangers and public safety issues associated with lithium batteries, that can swell and catch fire. Educational training will be provided to first responders and workers of hazardous waste facilities who manage these potentially dangerous batteries.

Courtesy: www.wasteadvantagemag.com