Batteries: Recharge Or Recycle
Most batteries, even rechargeable ones, contain hazardous wastes (some have mercury or cadmium), that can leak into soil and groundwater if they are improperly disposed of (see "Recycling Rechargeable Batteries" below). So it is a good idea to avoid buying single-use batteries
Rechargeable batteries cost a bit more, but will save you money — and time and the environment — in the long run. A battery recharger and a set of rechargable batteries will save you the aggravation of having to buy new batteries when yours run out, and will help you do your part to cut down on the production of household hazardous waste. Plus, when your rechargeable battery finally reaches the end of its life, it can be recycled.
Ask your battery or electronic retailer about the rechargeable battery options. Different kinds of rechargeable batteries offer different advantages depending on the device you are seeking to power. It is now even possible to get solar chargers for batteries, so ask your retailer about that, too.
Common types of rechargeable batteries include:
- Alkaline - may contain mercury
- Nickel Cadmium (NiCd) - contain cadmium
- Nickel-Metal Hydide (NiMH) - non-toxic (according to the U.S. EPA)
- Low Self Discharge NiMH (LSD) - "ready to use" NiMH batteries
- Lithium-ion - considered more environmentally-friendly than NiMH batteries
RECYCLING RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES
Local retailers will collect your spent rechargeable batteries and ship them to a recycling facility. The recovered materials can be used to make new products such as new batteries and stainless steel products. Visit the Rechargeable Battery Recycling Corporation's website (www.call2recycle.org) or Stewardship Ontario's Orange Drop website (www.makethedrop.ca) for a list of retailers in Kingston that accept rechargeable batteries for recycling.
Rechargeable batteries are commonly found in:
- Cordless power tools
- Cellular and cordless phones
- Laptop computers
- Camcorders
- Digital cameras
- Remote control toys
Remember ... if a battery is rechargeable, it's recyclable!
Rechargeable batteries can also be brought to Kingston's Household Hazardous Waste Facility (including single use dry-cell batteries).
Single-use batteries can also be dropped off in battery-shaped bins in the lobbies of City Hall, 216 Ontario St. and the INVISTA Centre, 1350 Gardiner's Rd.
