Batteries

Batteries

Jul 22

One of the many items that we accept at our recycling centers will never make a profit for the M.e.t. We collect them not because they are wanted by someone else, but because throwing them away can cause pollution. What are these dangerous items? Batteries. Yes. The kind of batteries that operate our remote controls, our toys, our watches, even batteries that start our car can be very bad for the planet. The average American household buys seventeen AA or AAA batteries a year. Add to this number at least as many C or D size, throw in rechargeable batteries for our Ipods and cell phones, then count the occasional car battery and you can see we have plenty of them in our lives.

Batteries are full of dangerous metals and acid. They work by a chemical reaction between these to produce or store energy. But if you just throw them away, they have potential to break and drip the acid onto the liners of the landfill, potentially contaminating our underground water sources. While most batteries are now mercury free, the newest have some of the most dangerous metals inside. Lead, nickel, cadmium and lithium are all listed as pollutants. Even alkaline batteries that are broken can leak the alkali electrolyte that can cause chemical burns upon touch.

What can you do? First, try to find ways to avoid batteries if possible. There are great new flashlights that save up energy by shaking or repeatedly squeezing the handle. If purchasing a child’s toy, look for ones that don’t take batteries. Let our children use their imagination to bring the toy to life. Secondly, buy rechargeable batteries whenever possible. The chargers and batteries may cost as much as three times more initially, but can be recharged hundreds of times. In fact, most electronic devices recommend rechargeables and actually work better than the alkaline ones we buy so many of. Investing in a good charger and some batteries that can be used over and over again will save you money and help save our earth at the same time.

If you have batteries to dispose of, you can just bring them to your nearest recycling drop-off center. We accept them seven days a week at all locations. Every battery we collect is a victory for the environment. We accept all batteries, all the time. You have the power to make a difference.