Call2Recycle Canada says the nation recycled more than 8,000 tonnes of used batteries in 2025, pushing the program past 60 million kg collected nationwide since it launched in 1997.
Based in Toronto, Call2Recycle Canada is a national, not-for-profit battery stewardship organization that operates provincially regulated recycling programs on behalf of battery producers. It manages more than 15,000 drop-off locations across the country, allowing consumers and businesses to return household batteries, rechargeable packs and e-bike batteries for proper processing instead of disposal in the garbage stream.
The 2025 total marks the highest annual figure in the organization’s history. To put that figure in context, it is roughly equal to the weight of more than 1,300 full-size pickup trucks. The cumulative 60 million kg collected since 1997 equals the weight of roughly 10,000 pickup trucks.
“Reaching more than 8 million kilograms collected in just one year and surpassing 60 million kilograms recycled overall reflects the commitment of Canadians across the country who are choosing to recycle responsibly to prevent fire risks and protect our environment for generations to come,” said Joe Zenobio, president and CEO of Call2Recycle Canada.
The announcement coincided with National Battery Day on Feb. 18, a date used to raise awareness about the environmental and fire risks associated with improper battery disposal. Lithium-ion batteries in particular can ignite if damaged or crushed, creating hazards in waste collection trucks, transfer stations and recycling facilities.
Materials recovered through the program, including metals such as nickel, cobalt and lithium, are processed for reuse in new products, supporting Canada’s broader circular economy and critical minerals strategy.
For automotive and collision sectors handling increasing volumes of electrified vehicles and battery-powered tools, the milestone underscores growing public participation in battery recovery and the expanding infrastructure to manage end-of-life energy storage products safely.
