Lithium batteries are exploding in popularity, and literally exploding. Gretchen and Waneta welcome Stan Walczak, Rob Gogan, and Dave Ditada, to discuss the explosive danger of lithium batteries. Stan Walczak is Facility Manager of ReSource Waste Services, Rob Gogan is retired Recycling and Waste Manager for Harvard University, and Dave Ditada Fuel Superintendent at SEMASS Covanta. Each share their unique experience with these incendiary devices in the waste world.

Lithium ion batteries can explode and burn violently if punctured. This is incredibly dangerous for anyone in the waste industry. Despite the dramatic hazard that rechargeable batteries pose, proper collection is not widely available. Listen for some shocking stories about what happens when lithium batteries enter the waste stream, the role that Extended Producer Responsibility legislation can play, and why it is just as important to recycle alkaline batteries (hint, recyclable and toxic metals that are mined in horrific conditions around the world).