Durham Region's Battery Recycling Program Receives Award

Durham Region, in collaboration with Environmental 360 Solutions, has been awarded the 2024 Prestige Public Private Partnership award by the North American Hazardous Materials Management Association. This recognition is for their battery recycling program, which is noted for its effective partnership in managing household hazardous waste.

Since the program's inception in 2012, Durham Region has successfully diverted nearly 454,000 kilograms of batteries from landfills. This initiative has influenced over 60 municipalities in Ontario to start similar programs. In 2013, the region set a Guinness World Record by collecting 5,120 kilograms of batteries in a single day.

The program includes curbside collection in spring and fall, and provides various drop-off locations across the region, including facilities in Oshawa, Scugog, and Brock. A Household and Special Waste Depot is also available in Clarington, with additional services offered in Pickering.

The next scheduled curbside collection will occur from April 28 to May 2, 2025. Residents are advised to place sealed battery bags on top of their closed Green Bins for collection during this period.

Andrew Evans, Director of Waste Management Services for Durham Region, highlighted the importance of resident participation in the program, which contributes to environmental protection by preventing harmful materials from entering the waste stream.