According to the state Department of Environmental Services, some batteries are hazardous waste because of their toxic contents and reactive properties.
Alkaline batteries sold after 1996 have no mercury and may be thrown away. These can be identified by the green stripe, a green tree, an “Hg free” label or an expiration date later than 1998. Older batteries should be taken to a collection location or recycling facility.
Zinc carbon and zinc chloride batteries are non-hazardous and can be thrown out.
Lithium batteries are hazardous waste and should be brought to a collection center.