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Battery Collection & Recycling

Batteries power toys, tools, flashlights, laptops, cell phones, automobiles, industrial equipment, emergency lighting and more. Whether batteries are single-use or rechargeable, their disposal presents a problem, because batteries contain toxic heavy metals that can contaminate the environment and harm human health. Battery collection and recycling regulations vary from state to state. The Mercury-Containing and Rechargeable Battery Act, passed by Congress in 1996, asked battery manufacturers for changes that would make it easier for consumers to collect and recycle batteries. The act also included a provision for phasing out some mercury-containing batteries.

Alkaline and Zinc-Carbon Batteries
- Alkaline and zinc-carbon batteries are the common AA, AAA, C, D and 9-volt batteries used in flashlights, toothbrushes, remote controls, fire alarms, toys and other equipment. Although many states don't require recycling of these types of batteries, because the amount of mercury has been lowered or eliminated, these batteries still contain other toxic components, such as cadmium, that can harm the environment and human health. A number of reclamation companies will recycle these batteries. The end products such as zinc, manganese, paper, plastic and steel are recycled into new products.
Automobile and Other Lead-Based Batteries
- Most automobile batteries are accepted for recycling by the retailers that sell them. Automotive stores or local hazard-waste recycling programs will also collect non-automobile lead-based batteries for recycling. Ninety-six percent of automobile batteries are recycled, as required by many state laws. Automobile batteries and other lead-based batteries are crushed and separated into plastic and lead components. The isolated plastic and lead are recycled into new lead-acid batteries.
Button-Cell Batteries
- Button-cell batteries are found in watches, hearing aids and other products. These batteries contain toxic substances such as mercury, cadmium and lithium ions. Recycling these types of batteries not only prevents potential environmental contamination, but also provides a source of valuable metals for use in new products. Mail-order recycling services are an inexpensive option for recycling old button-cell batteries.
Rechargeable Batteries
- Rechargeable batteries contain toxic materials such as lead, nickel, cadmium and lithium ion. To keep toxins out of landfills and the air, rechargeable batteries that are ready to be discarded require recycling. The nonprofit Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation helps to organize battery recycling programs for communities and businesses. Stores that sell electronic equipment often will also take back used rechargeable batteries and deliver them to the RBRC. Most of the materials in rechargeable batteries are later used to make new products.

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