When batteries run out of power or are no longer usable, recycling them helps protect the environment and recover precious resources to reuse in new products.
We use batteries to power everything from watches to cars and even our homes, however they can contain toxic metals including cadmium, mercury and lead.
The great news is that batteries are recyclable, and recycling used batteries keeps hazardous materials out of landfill and prevents them from contaminating land and waterways.
Recycling batteries is easy, yet less than 3 per cent of all batteries purchased in Australia are recycled, meaning more than 14,000 tonnes of batteries head to landfill each year.
Here is our guide to recycling batteries:
How can I recycle batteries?
Recycling old batteries is a simple process — you just have to drop them off at the right spot.
The best place to start is your local council, which may have dedicated battery collection points at local waste transfer stations or offices.
Alternatively, households can drop off everyday batteries such as AA and D varieties at Aldi supermarkets, while Battery World retail outlets accept all battery types.
Rechargeable batteries of all shapes and sizes can be recycled too, including the batteries in your mobile phone, tablet and laptop.
Just remember that rechargeable batteries may be hidden in devices such as electric toothbrushes and shavers.
You can find your closest battery collection point at RecyclingNearYou.com.
How are batteries recycled?
Batteries are recycled in different ways, depending on the chemicals inside them.
Australian specialist battery recycler Ecocycle recycles batteries for businesses and organisations by providing collection buckets and recycling bins in workplaces.
The buckets and bins are picked up once full, transported to processing facilities and sorted by size and type.
The batteries are safely broken apart and the different materials such as metals and plastics are recovered for reuse in new products.
Recycle batteries today
We all use batteries at home and work, so we are all responsible for reducing the amount of battery waste that ends up in landfill.
Recycling batteries is a great way to cut landfill battery waste and help keep harmful chemicals away from the environment.
While households can leave used batteries with local councils and retail stores, businesses and larger organisations can tackle battery recycling through commercial-scale recycling programs.
Ecocycle recycles all types of batteries and offers recycling solutions, including the delivery and pick up of collection buckets, as well as the provision of workplace recycling certificates.
To learn more about our battery recycling solutions, give us a call on 1300 326 292 or fill in the form below.
