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Mail them back

New option available for used batteries, bulbs

Scanner scanning a label.
This scanner uses the kind of battery that can be recycled through the new mail-back option. The Sustainability Blue page’s batteries section has more examples of batteries that can be recycled.

USPS is reminding employees not to throw away batteries and light bulbs, but to follow proper recycling procedures instead.

The Postal Service uses many battery types and sizes, including lithium, lithium-ion, nickel-cadmium and lead-acid.

Lithium and lithium-ion batteries from handheld scanners and portable electronic devices are the most common regulated battery used at Postal Service sites.

Most batteries should be managed as universal waste and recycled. The Sustainability Blue page’s batteries section has more information.

Light bulbs containing mercury and other hazardous materials also should be managed as universal waste and recycled. Such bulbs include 4-foot and 8-foot fluorescent bulbs and compact fluorescent bulbs.

USPS facilities should recycle both used batteries and bulbs through Cleanlites Recycling Inc., the Postal Service’s national universal waste management service contractor.

Cleanlites now offers a mail-back option, in addition to direct pick-up services.

The Sustainability Blue page has more information about environmental compliance.

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