Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich, alongside the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), has announced the expansion of the County’s curbside recycling program for single-family homes. The updated service will now offer on-call collection of electronic items and household batteries for residents who already receive County-provided recycling. Full implementation is expected County-wide by the end of 2025.
The DEP’s Recycling and Resource Management Division has been gradually introducing this enhanced service in select areas since April 2022. The expanded recycling includes both alkaline and rechargeable batteries.
“This expansion is a win for residents and the environment,” said Executive Elrich. “Between 2022 and 2024, we recycled over 3,700 tons of electronics and batteries, keeping them out of the waste stream. By making recycling more accessible, we’re encouraging greater participation and moving closer to our zero waste goal.”
Residents who don’t yet have access to the service will receive a bilingual postcard and letter with instructions on how to schedule a pickup, prepare materials, and determine when the service will begin in their area.
“Curbside pickup for electronics and batteries makes recycling more convenient and protects the environment from the hazards these materials can pose when improperly discarded,” said DEP Director Jon Monger. “This program responds to the growing use of batteries and electronics and provides a sustainable solution for managing them.”
Once available, residents can schedule a collection by calling MC311. This is an on-call service—items must be scheduled for pickup ahead of the regular recycling day. Electronics and batteries should never be placed in standard recycling bins or trash, as they can cause fires or disrupt recycling processes.
This new service is part of Montgomery County’s larger initiative to improve recycling access, divert more materials from landfills, and move closer to a zero waste future. By offering safe and convenient options, the County is helping ensure electronics and batteries are responsibly handled.
Since the program’s soft launch in 2022, over 2,500 collection requests have already been made by residents in eligible areas.
