Canada Hits Battery Recycling Milestone with Record-Breaking Year, Call2Recycle Reports

Photo Credit: Call2Recycle 

Canada’s battery recycling efforts have reached new heights, according to Call2Recycle Canada’s newly released 2024 Annual Report. The non-profit organization, recognized as the country’s leading battery collection and recycling program, announced that Canadians recycled an unprecedented 6.8 million kilograms of used batteries last year — a 17% increase over 2023 and the highest annual total in its history.

As reported by Call2Recycle, this surge helped the organization surpass a cumulative total of 50 million kilograms of batteries collected since its inception in 1997, a milestone that underscores the growing public commitment to sustainable waste management practices.

According to Call2Recycle, the successful rollout of the “Recycle Your Batteries, Canada!” awareness campaign was a key contributor to the record-breaking year. Launched in 2024 and fronted by Canadian soccer icon Christine Sinclair, the initiative leveraged national TV and digital campaigns alongside community-level outreach to boost public engagement around battery recycling.

It is also reported that over 2,800 new battery drop-off sites were added across Canada in 2024, bringing the nationwide total to approximately 15,000 locations. As a result, around 90% of Canadians now live within 15 kilometers of a battery recycling facility.

Call2Recycle also broadened its regional impact. The company highlights the launch of a household battery recycling program in Nova Scotia, and notes that British Columbia granted approval for a specialized e-transport battery program, which includes the safe disposal of e-bike batteries and entire devices.

To support the growing volume of batteries being recycled, Call2Recycle scaled up its national infrastructure. The organization introduced North America’s first Smart Battery Containers, equipped with thermal and fill-level sensors to enhance safety and operational efficiency. Its network of logistics, sorting, and processing partners was also expanded, helping reduce costs and support Canada’s green economy.

Battery recycling plays a vital role in Canada’s climate and sustainability strategy, reducing environmental harm and supporting a circular economy. Call2Recycle continues to urge Canadians to participate in its simple “Collect, Protect, Drop-Off” system every three months.

Source: Call2Recycle