Batteries / Batterier
See the most important Danish waste categories and how correct sorting helps materials move on to recycling.
Click a waste category to read more about it.
In short
Batteries must always be sorted separately because they can contain valuable materials, but also harmful substances. They must not go in residual waste or ordinary bins.
Common mistakes
- Batteries must never be placed in residual waste, plastic, metal or ordinary electronics bins.
- Loose batteries from toys, remote controls and kitchen devices should be removed and sorted separately.
- Large batteries from cars, e-bikes and scooters usually need to be delivered at a recycling centre.
- Damaged or warm batteries must be handled extra carefully and according to municipal instructions.
Ordinary or special battery?
Small batteries go through the battery scheme
Batteries from remote controls, toys, flashlights, hearing aids and small devices can usually be delivered in battery boxes, hazardous-waste boxes, shops or at recycling centres.
Large and damaged batteries need special handling
Car batteries, e-bike batteries, scooter batteries, power banks and damaged lithium batteries usually need to be delivered at a recycling centre or through a special municipal scheme.
Check local rules
Danish municipalities may have different schemes for battery bags, hazardous-waste boxes, pickup, shops and larger batteries from transport or power tools. Find your municipality.
Batteries
Used batteries must be collected separately and should never be thrown in ordinary household waste. Batteries can contain valuable materials, but also substances that may harm the environment or human health if handled incorrectly.
Where batteries go
In Denmark, batteries are usually handed in through battery containers, municipal collection schemes or recycling centres. Batteries from remote controls, toys, kitchen appliances and flashlights are typical examples. Larger batteries, such as car batteries and e-bike batteries, are usually taken to a recycling centre.
FAQ about batteries
Can batteries go in residual waste?+
No. Batteries can contain harmful substances and may create a fire risk, especially lithium batteries. They must be delivered through the battery scheme.
Should batteries be removed from electronics?+
Yes, if it can be done safely. Loose batteries are sorted as batteries, while devices with built-in batteries are normally delivered as electronics.
Where do ordinary small batteries go?+
Small batteries can often be delivered in battery boxes, hazardous-waste boxes, shops with battery collection or at a recycling centre.
Where should car batteries go?+
Car batteries and other large accumulators should normally be delivered at a recycling centre or to a retailer that accepts them.
What should I do with a damaged battery?+
A damaged, swollen or warm battery can be dangerous. Do not place it in ordinary bins. Contact the municipality or recycling centre for correct handling.
Waste items sorted as batteries / Batterier
Accumulator battery
Alkaline battery
Battery
Blood glucose meter
Bush trimmer
Button cell battery
Car accumulator battery
Car battery
Electric toothbrush handle
Measuring equipment
Mechanical toy
Musical birthday card
Rechargeable battery
Wristwatch