An automated external defibrillator (AED) is a life-saving device that causes electric shock to restart the heart in the event of sudden cardiac arrest. If AED reaches the end of its lifetime or is no longer needed, proper disposal can prevent e-waste from reaching the environment. A few simple steps can ensure responsible recycling of AEDs.
AED units are not as commonly recycled as smartphones and laptops, but can be handled by medical device manufacturers specializing in renovating or safely destroying electronic healthcare devices.
Best Options: Mail-in Recycling Program
One of the easiest ways to recycle AEDs is Mail-in Medical Device Recycling Program. These services accept handheld medical devices, including AEDs, and ensure that they are properly disposed of for parts recovery and e-waste management.
Veolia and Terracycle It offers convenient Ewaste Mail-In options.
AED electrode pads are not widely recycled. The pads contain adhesive gels and electronic components that are inappropriate for standard recycle streams. If the manufacturer or AED supplier does not accept the pads, we will dispose of them as household trash unless the manufacturer provides specific instructions.
AED Manufacturer’s Recycling Program
Several AED manufacturers and distributors offer recycling programs for AED devices, pads and batteries. Below is a list of some notable programs.
- AED One Stop Shop: Enjoy free recycling of AED devices, batteries and electrode pads. Please contact an AED consultant sales@aedonestopshop.com Alternatively, call 855-677-2337 (option 1) to participate.
- AED Market: The AED retailer offers free recycling for used AED batteries and devices. The customer is responsible for shipping costs. For more information, please see the Recycling Program page.
- aed.us: We offer free recycling services for expired AED batteries. Customers cover shipping costs. The company accepts only one battery per cargo. になったんです。 English: The first thing you can do is to find the best one to do.
- Heart Life: Provides information on recycling of AED units, electrodes/pads and batteries. We also provide assistance with re-keling AED batteries. To participate, please contact info@cardiaclife.net Alternatively, call 585-267-7775.
- I think it’s safe: Recycle AED units and AED batteries to reduce waste and promote sustainability, but do not accept pads. Please contact our support staff for recycling instructions. support@think-safe.com Alternatively, call 319-377-5125. になったんです。 English: The first thing you can do is to find the best one to do.
- AED Superstore: AED Superstore is committed to environmentally safe battery handling and offers recycling programs for expired AED batteries, not devices or pads. You will need to cover the shipping costs.
- Stop a heart attack: We provide recycling of AED batteries. Make sure the battery is completely discharged before shipping and only include one battery per box.
Before joining a recycling program, we recommend that you contact your provider directly to find out more and get specific instructions to return your AED device, pad, or battery.
Alternative: Best Buy’s Electronics Recycling Program
Because AED is a handheld electronic device, Best Buy’s recycling program may also be accepted at in-store drop-off locations. Policy varies by location, but Best Buy may accept AED lithium-ion batteries and acquire the unit itself. Please call your local store in advance to confirm.
Responsibly recycle AEDs help reduce e-waste and collect valuable materials such as batteries and circuit components to be reused in reconditioned devices and new electronic devices. There are ways to keep AEDs out of landfills using sustainable disposal practices through dedicated medical device recycling, email and drop-off programs.
