Batteries are one of the most commonly used items in homes and businesses. From remote controls, smoke alarms, watches, and toys to commercial flashlights and vehicle batteries, batteries are an extremely useful power supply. Just like paper, glass, plastic, and metal, batteries should be recycled instead of thrown away.
They Contain Toxic Chemicals
Common household batteries contain a variety of chemicals including lithium, zinc, lead, cadmium, and mercury. The combination of chemicals is what make batteries work—but they are also harmful if they aren’t properly processed when the battery is spent. When batteries are thrown into the garbage, they end up in the landfill. Over time, the chemicals inside of the battery cause the outer metal casing to erode and the chemicals inside to leach out. These chemicals may end up in our groundwater, which then moves into plants, animals, and even fish. Recycling batteries is an excellent practice to help eliminate the harmful impact of their toxic chemicals.
Reduce The Demand for New Materials
Another key reason to recycle old batteries is to reduce the requirement of mining new raw material for future batteries and other products. Batteries contain a variety of heavy metals that can be recovered and reused to manufacture new products. By recycling your batteries, you are reducing the huge carbon footprint that comes from mining and transportation.
Kelowna Recycling accepts a variety of battery types including:
- Single-use batteries (e.g., lithium, alkaline, carbon zinc, silver oxide)
- Rechargeable batteries (e.g., lithium-ion, nickel cadmium, nickel metal hydride)
- Cellphone batteries
- Car batteries (minimum quantities apply)
Visit Our Drop-Off Centre in Kelowna
Make Kelowna Recycling your first choice for dropping off recycling – whether you are a residential, commercial, or industrial customer. Contact us today if you have any questions about recycling old batteries and other materials.