How to Recycle Household Batteries

Household batteries are usually not rechargeable. Many of us simply dump used batteries in the trash without understanding the harmful effects on the environment. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) estimates about 350 million batteries are used in the U.S. annually, with elements such as cadmium, alkaline, nickel and mercury that are seriously unsafe for our environment. It is important to know how to recycle household batteries.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Make sure that the household batteries you have are not dumped into landfills or incinerators straightaway. They need to be sent to the recycling plant. The EPA follows the Battery Act of 1996 measures which lay out the methods for recycling and disposal of household batteries. Learn about those in your state and its enforcement.

2. Learn more about what are in dry batteries like alkaline, zinc carbon, nickel cadmium, lithium ion, nickel metal hydride, lithium, mercury, silver and lead acid. Call your local EPA office to ask about where you can recycle household batteries.

3. Visit www.earth911.org and enter your location and zip code to find the nearest household battery recycling drop box.

4. Surf the Internet and research organizations and programs that accept used batteries for recycling. Visit www.batteryrecycling.com or call 1-800-852-8127. Look at the recycling program of Battery Solutions Inc. You have to pay a certain fee (usually less than a dollar) per pound for recycling used batteries.
   Decided to go with Battery Solutions Inc.?
   1. Estimate how much you will pay based on the weight of the batteries.
   2. Choose a payment method.
   3. Fill out the form with your address and contact information.
   4. Follow the instructions on shipping and handling before sending the batteries.
   5. Write your return address on the container and ship it to Battery Solutions Inc.

Tips & Warnings

• Sort household batteries based on content, use and size before sending them for recycling. Alkaline batteries in TV remotes go through a different process of recycling from button batteries in your wristwatch.
• Store used batteries in a recycle bag kept away from fire, high temperature and extreme sunlight.
• Avoid burning used batteries. They pollute the air with their hazardous vapor.
• Avoid breaking or physically damaging the battery to expose its contents. They may cause skin burns and will harm your eyes.
• Do not try to recycle any of the battery contents either at home or office without knowing the proper method.

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