Bending the Arc references a quote by Rev. Dr. King who said, “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice.” This digital newsletter from the CSA Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation office showcases the work of changemakers, opportunities to learn, and opportunities for you to help “bend the arc” toward justice. Full contents of the newsletter are published on this page.
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New Statewide Battery Program
May 01, 2026
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers signed two bipartisan bills into law April 2 that create a statewide battery recycling program. 2025 Wisconsin Act 170 and 2025 Wisconsin Act 171 will require producers of portable and medium-format batteries to join a battery stewardship organization and submit a plan for a statewide battery collection and recycling program to the DNR by Jan. 1, 2027. Once approved and fully implemented, the program will provide free collection of batteries for recycling at locations around the state. A ban on disposal of covered batteries will take effect Jan. 1, 2028.
Batteries covered by the new law include portable or medium-format batteries intended or designed to be easily removed from products using common household tools. These include both rechargeable batteries, such as lithium ion, nickel cadmium and nickel metal hydride, used in consumer electronics, small appliances and power tools, and e-mobility devices like bikes and scooters. It also includes single-use batteries, such as alkaline AAA, AA, C and D batteries and button or coin cell batteries. Not included are lead-acid vehicle batteries, which have their own recycling program, or electronics eligible for recycling through the E-Cycle Wisconsin program. For more about battery types and current recycling options, visit the DNR’s battery recycling webpage.
Many batteries — especially powerful lithium-ion batteries in small electronics — can hold a considerable charge even when they no longer provide sufficient energy to power a device. When consumers put used batteries or electronics in trash or recycling bins, the heavy equipment involved with collecting, sorting and recycling or disposing of the waste can easily damage the batteries, leading quickly to serious fires that can put workers at risk and destroy equipment or entire facilities.
The DNR worked with many industry stakeholders on the development of this legislation to provide free and convenient battery recycling options and reduce the number of batteries in curbside garbage and recycling programs.
Over the next several months, the DNR will continue to share information with stakeholders and implement the new law. If you have questions, contact Sarah Murray at Sarah.Murray@wisconsin.gov.
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