Redwood launches Advocate Toolkit

Lithium-ion battery recycler Redwood Materials, Carson City, Nevada, is launching an Advocate Toolkit as part of its nationwide Consumer Recycling Program.

Through the program, which was introduced in 2022, consumers can recycle devices containing rechargeable lithium-ion batteries by dropping them off at one of the company's 39 collection sites as of late July, including the company’s headquarters as well as select Audi and Volkswagen dealerships, at community events or by mailing them to Redwood Materials to the attention of Consumer Program - Mail at 2401 Conestoga Dr., Carson City, NV 89706. Devices can be dropped off or shipped following Department of Transportation Guidelines.

The company says the toolkit is “a comprehensive resource that covers everything from the basics of battery and device recycling to the individual and community efforts that are helping to shape our clean energy future.”

The resource is designed for consumers who want to engage with Redwood’s circular supply chain mission.

In the toolkit, Redwood says, “We believe in the strength of collective action and are dedicated to engaging and empowering people to join our mission, accelerating our clean energy transition.”

The company notes that consumer devices contribute to the world’s fastest growing waste stream and that, globally, less than 5 percent of lithium-ion-containing devices are recycled. When recycled, lithium-ion batteries and rechargeable devices can decrease global reliance on mining and lower the cost and environmental impact of our products. Additionally, the U.S. is pursuing aggressive and ambitious electrification goals to onshore an advanced battery industry and material supply chain, and everyone can play their part by recycling.

Redwood says it will use the toolkit to build on its existing partnerships with automakers (Audi and VW dealerships already host drop-off locations), national nonprofits and educational institutions.

“Together, we can make consumer recycling safe, effortless and free and we encourage everyone to download the guide,” says Sonja Koch, senior Public Affairs & Consumer Program Manager at Redwood Materials.