How to Recycle Batteries Recycle Series: Part III brought to you by Microempowering.org

Batteries Most batteries, with the exception of rechargeable and lithium batteries, pose minimal risk to the environment if discarded in the regular trash. This is due to standard household alkaline batteries no longer containing mercury.

Purchasing Rechargeable Batteries Before buying standard household batteries consider purchasing rechargeable batteries. Rechargeable batteries can be used multiple times before disposal. They save you money and reduce the number of batteries that end up in landfills. Note: Make sure that they are appropriate for the equipment you are using.

Toxicity of Rechargeable Batteries While rechargeable batteries are greener, many toxic metals, including cadmium, cobalt, and lead, are used to make them. These metals are harmful to the environment and people; therefore, it is essential to dispose of them properly.

Rechargeable Batteries are Recyclable! The metals used to make rechargeable batteries can be later be recycled to make more batteries, which reduces the need to mine for new resources. Programs like Call2Recycle are working to educate people on how to recycle rechargeable batteries.

Recycling Rechargeable Batteries Rechargeable batteries can be brought back to any store that sells them. To prevent the risk of fire, each battery should be individually bagged or packaged (stores will often have free bags available).

Charging Batteries Go green by purchasing solar or environmentally friendly chargers that decrease your carbon footprint while extending the life of your rechargeable battery. You can find such chargers at retailers like Powerstick, who offer energy efficient merchandise.

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