Are lithium primary batteries the same as lithium-ion?

No. Primary lithium is single-use and often contains lithium metal. Lithium-ion is rechargeable. Both need battery drop-off and taped terminals, but they are different products and often use different drop-off streams.

Can I put lithium AA batteries in the trash?

No. EPA says not to put lithium single-use batteries in trash or municipal recycling bins. Tape them and use a battery drop-off or HHW.

How do I spot a lithium primary cell?

The wrapper usually says lithium. Photo cells like CR123A are almost always primary lithium. Rechargeable tool and phone packs say Li-ion instead.

Do I have to tape the terminals?

Yes. Battery Network guidance calls for terminal protection on lithium primary cells. Use electrical, packing, or duct tape; skip weak office tape that peels off. Alkaline AA/AAA usually do not need the same tape.

Will every Battery Network box take primary lithium?

No. Rechargeable bins are widespread; primary lithium acceptance depends on select partners. Check the locator details or use HHW if the store says no.

Batteries recycling

How to Recycle Lithium Primary Batteries

Non-rechargeable lithium-metal primary cells (CR123A, CR2, some AA/AAA marked lithium, camera and smoke-detector cells) that use lithium metal rather than a rechargeable Li-ion chemistry.

Recyclable$0Updated Jul 2026

Quick answer

Single-use lithium (lithium primary) batteries are not rechargeable and are not the same as lithium-ion. Tape the terminals, keep them out of trash and curbside bins, and drop them at HHW, Batteries Plus, or a Battery Network locator site that confirms primary lithium. Home Depot Call2Recycle bins reject single-use cells. They can spark fires if crushed or shorted.

Recyclable: Yes
Typical value: $0
Donate / take-back: Available

How to Prepare

1Confirm the label says lithium (not alkaline and not Li-ion rechargeable)
2

How to Recycle Lithium Primary Batteries

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How to Recycle Lithium Primary Batteries

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