Denton families looking to clear out outdated electronics have a convenient, cost‑free option on Saturday, Nov. 14. The Pilot Knob Rotary Club, together with Advanced Placement environmental science students and teachers Stephanie Riley and Jill Best‑Sampson, will host a lithium‑ion battery recycling event at Guyer High School, 7501 Teasley Lane, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
What can be recycled?
Residents are encouraged to bring any unwanted rechargeable device that contains a lithium‑ion battery. Acceptable items include cellphones, laptops, tablets, power tools, electric toothbrushes, wireless headphones and gaming controllers. Batteries do not need to be removed from the devices before dropping them off, but organizers ask participants to erase personal data from phones, computers and other electronics prior to recycling.
Why recycle lithium‑ion batteries?
Lithium‑ion batteries hold valuable minerals such as lithium, copper, nickel and cobalt. Modern recycling technology can recover up to 95 % of these materials, allowing them to be reused in new batteries and other products. Keeping these batteries out of landfills also reduces the risk of fire or chemical leakage, protecting both the environment and public safety.
Despite their value, fewer than 5 % of small rechargeable lithium‑ion battery devices are currently recycled, according to the event organizers. Millions of unused devices sit in homes across Denton, where aging or damaged batteries can become a safety hazard.
Community partners
The Rotary Club and the student team are working with Andrew Siegel, operator of Junkluggers of Greater Dallas, a junk‑removal company that emphasizes environmentally responsible disposal, recycling and reuse. The collaboration underscores the community’s commitment to stewardship and practical education.
Only lithium‑ion batteries and consumer rechargeable devices will be accepted. Single‑use alkaline batteries are not part of this event.
How to get involved
Anyone with questions can contact event coordinator Mike Weaver at 940‑391‑9614 or via email at [email protected]. For more information about the Pilot Knob Rotary Club, visit pilotknobrotary.com.
This free recycling day offers Denton residents a practical way to protect the environment, support local education and keep hazardous materials out of the waste stream. By turning unwanted gadgets into a resource for new products, the community takes a tangible step toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Original reporting: Cross Timbers Gazette — read the source article.
