There is no global standard for recycling, or otherwise disposing of batteries. Even authorities in various parts of North America fail to agree on all the details. We therefore pitch this post about recycling various batteries in fairly general terms. None the less, we hope what follows moves the process forward, in the direction we all believe it should go.
Towards an Understanding of Recycling Various Batteries
We should attempt to recover all the components of batteries, when their useful life has ended. Because that way we should not squander what we have, but will reduce the carbon footprint of the industry.
Where this goal is not yet possible, we should dispose of all spent batteries responsibly. This should enable us to achieve our secondary goal of not polluting our environment with noxious chemicals.
Putting These Principles into Action Within What Is Feasible
SINGLE USE PRIMARY BATTERIES
- Alkaline batteries may be placed in the garbage, although it is better to label them and hand them in for recycling.
- Zinc carbon and zinc chloride batteries are also non-hazardous and may be treated similarly.
- Lithium batteries are hazardous if incorrectly handled. Label them, insulate the terminals, and hand them in at a recycling point.
- Penny button batteries may contain hazardous substances. Don’t take a chance. Hand them over at a recycling point.
RECYCLING VARIOUS SECONDARY BATTERIES
- Lead batteries are easy to recycle, in fact 95% of all these batteries find a new purpose in North America. Hand them in at a supplier making sure the cases are not damaged. They should be happy to assist.
- Other rechargeable batteries must be treated with caution, making sure they go to a recycling service. Always isolate the terminals before you do, and label them by type of battery so they know which is which.
Recycling all these various batteries is our social duty, and civic responsibility. Always treat batteries with respect. Never attempt to dismantle them or otherwise damage them. You may never know what is going on inside the cases until you look.
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