Lane County seeks survey input to help stop battery fires, improve recycling

Waste Wise Lane County-a part of the Lane County Waste Management Division-is asking residents to take a short community survey to help prevent dangerous battery fires and improve battery recycling, disposal, and storage practices.

"It's up to all of us to learn how to responsibly manage and dispose of batteries safely," said Angie Marzano, Lane County Waste Reduction Program supervisor. "This is especially true for lithium-ion batteries, which can explode or burn when damaged. These 'thermal events'-which are becoming more frequent as battery use increases - can pose serious risks to county employees, equipment, and facilities."

The urgency is clear: Lane County's Short Mountain Landfill experienced 49 lithium battery thermal events in 2025, up from 34 in 2024. These events present significant safety hazards and can damage critical infrastructure while increasing operational and environmental risks.

Residents are encouraged to take a quick, confidential survey before it closes January 19. Survey responses will help local experts understand current recycling knowledge and identify barriers residents face when trying to dispose of batteries properly.

Survey links:

• English: lcbattery.org
• Español: lcbateria.org

As an added incentive, $1 will be donated to BRING, a local nonprofit, for each completed survey.

About Waste Wise Lane County

Waste Wise Lane County-a part of the Lane County Waste Management Division-empowers residents, schools, and businesses with education, tools, and resources that can be used to reduce waste, conserve resources, and live more sustainably. For more information, visit lanecountyor.gov/wastewise.