Whether your rechargeable batteries have stopped working, your lead acid batteries no longer work, your automotive batteries need replacing, or your lithium-ion batteries need to be thrown away, you're going to have to dispose of them correctly. You can't use just any old approach, which can lead to toxic pollution and several other hazardous consequences.
It's fundamental to dispose of batteries safely . But if you're unsure which method to use, or how to throw them away correctly there's no need to worry.
Before you throw those office or household batteries away, make sure you read this article, in which we will cover just that. Discover how to dispose of batteries safely below!
Why Safe Battery Disposal is Important and How to Recycle Them
As stated by the University of Texas at Dallas, some types of batteries that aren't recycled can potentially explode. Others can release toxic fumes into the air, and some contain chemical elements that can pollute water sources, leading to environmental damage.
Yet, such risks are greatly reduced when you dispose of these batteries the right way. Let's consider the steps and tips you're going to need to follow if you want to recycle batteries correctly.
Don't Place Certain Batteries in the Garbage
You'll find that certain batteries such as lithium-ion batteries shouldn't be placed in the office garbage, as these can cause fires. So our first tip is to avoid putting batteries such as these into office garbage or recycling containers. Instead, put them into separate plastic bags or plastic containers once you have completed the following steps.
Sort them into Different Types of Batteries
You'll have to separate the batteries into single-use and rechargeable batteries as your first step. This is key because each of them requires a unique recycling process. It's also the case that some of the recycling programs accept specific types of batteries only — they may not take every type of battery that you need to recycle.
Tape the Terminals of the Batteries
You'll next need to use clear tape to close off the terminals. Stick the tape onto the terminals to ensure that no short-circuiting occurs. It's a crucial step because any short-circuiting can lead to fires. Taping the terminals is also fundamental if you're recycling lithium-ion batteries because, as mentioned, they can cause fires if they touch metal objects and make them overheat.
Locate the Services of a Local Solid Waste Authority
You're then going to need a local waste authority with a drop-off location, collection program, or even a mail-in service. You can locate these services by contacting the local waste management facility or department. Inquire about your options for battery recycling in your location and follow their advice.
4 Types of Batteries & Battery Brands You Will Need to Safely Recycle Safely
As stated by Statista , the capacity of the US battery manufacturing industry is likely to reach one terawatt-hour of battery manufacturing capacity by 2030, and this shows the sheer power this industry produces. You may have used batteries produced by this industry's manufacturers and need to dispose of them once their power is used up. Here, we'll explore various types of batteries and let you know how you can recycle them safely.
#1 Single-Use AA and AAA Batteries
Single-use batteries such as zinc carbon batteries or alkaline batteries are common options you might use for everyday items such as alarm clocks or remote controls, radios or children's toys, cordless power tools or digital cameras. Some examples of these batteries include double A (AA) or triple A (AAA) batteries such as the Duracell Optimum Alkaline AA Batteries or the Duracell Optimum Alkaline AAA Batteries .
Disposing of single-use batteries just requires you to separate them from your office waste. You'll need to collect them into a container, such as a cardboard box or plastic tub. You can then take the container to a nearby electronics store, which may have a recycling container specifically for recycling single-use batteries.
#2 Rechargeable Batteries
A rechargeable battery typically contains metals — specifically heavy lithium metal, nickel, or nickel-cadmium. Some of these, such as nickel metal hydride batteries, must not be disposed of with regular waste. Some examples of these batteries include the Energizer NiMH Rechargeable AA Batteries , which you may charge up to 1,000 times before disposal.
When you need to get rid of them, you first need to ensure they don't have any packaging or tape stuck to the battery. You can then take them to a recycling center or facility that accepts rechargeable batteries.
#3 Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Batteries
You'll find these types of rechargeable batteries in smartphones and laptops, tablets and some children's toys. They're not always easy to remove, so when you take them out of the device it's important to avoid bending or crushing them since they're a fire hazard.
If you need to dispose of a lithium-ion rechargeable battery, first place each battery into a separate plastic bag. Then, you'll want to take them to a center that offers local hazardous waste collection. Remember that if the battery has been damaged or appears damaged within the device, it's best to contact the battery or device manufacturer to discover more about how to handle the battery.
#4 Single-Use Lithium Coin Batteries
Coin batteries, such as the Energizer 2032 Lithium Coin Battery or the Duracell Lithium Coin Battery 2032 are ideal for specialty devices. You can use them for glucose monitors and heart rate monitors, keyless entry systems and plenty of other devices. When it's time to dispose of them, it's important to remember that they're made of lithium, which can create a fire when disposed of haphazardly.
For this reason, they will need to be taken to specialized battery recycling centers or retailers participating in hazardous waste collection programs. When you are handling these batteries, remember to first put electrical tape onto the battery's terminals and then put each coin battery into its own separate plastic bag.
Incorporate BuyDirect Batteries for Your Devices and Dispose of them With Care
Your battery-compatible devices need powerful batteries so that you can use them when required. If you've been looking for battery options for your specific needs, you don't need to look anywhere else. BuyDirect has a full range that can keep your devices running!
Whether for an in-office or home-office business, the specific batteries you need are available here. Purchase batteries from BuyDirect and then dispose of them safely with the tips outlined above.
FAQs
Require further information about batteries or battery recycling? We've got the answers you need in the following FAQs!
Can Lithium Batteries Be 100% Recycled?
Around 95% of a lithium-ion battery can be recycled and they're used in new batteries. Additionally, the materials within the lithium batteries, which can include lithium, nickel, cobalt, and more, can be reclaimed by a recycling facility and are ideal during the recycling process.
What Happens to Batteries in Landfill?
In this situation, batteries can release dangerous toxins and heavy metals. These chemical elements enter the soil and the groundwater, which can be a risk to animal and human health. They can contaminate waterways and harm various ecosystems, which is why disposing of batteries correctly is critical.
Can Car Batteries Be Recycled?
Without a doubt. They can be recycled just like other batteries. You'll need to take them to an authorized workshop when the battery reaches the end of the lifecycle. Approximately 95% of the raw materials in a car battery can be recovered during the recycling process.