Alkaline batteries come in several variations. They range from the standard AA and AAA. To the no so common C, D, and 9 -volt. Many states need a clear policy on disposing of spent batteries adequately. It varies from state to state, as many states don’t have a common recycling law. The number of people who recycle is small compared to those who throw them in the trash. Common sense should prevail when saving our planet, but that is uncommon.

What is the composition of Alkaline Batteries?

Almost All Alkaline batteries you encounter contain zinc, steel, potassium, and graphite. The interaction of zine and magnesium helps create a charge. Magnesium is a nutrient and great for the human body. A higher dosage of this can be harmful to you and your family. It can have adverse health effects on your life. Neurological side effects are common with people who have encountered magnesium products. Not properly disposing of batteries can be a severe hazard. They can contaminate groundwater. This happens when you throw alkaline batteries into the trash. They have a high chance of leaking.

Just Do it

EPA recommends that Alkaline batteries are safe to be put in the trash. But why does it stipulate that sending your batteries to a recycler is viable? This must stop. Government agencies must have the moral authority to define what one thing is good and evil. You can’t have it both ways and expect a different outcome. One state in the US even clarifies batteries as hazardous waste. They instruct residents that they will face severe consequences if they do not adequately dispose of alkaline batteries. You guessed right. It’s California.

What Wisconsin and Minnesota are doing for Alkaline Battery Recycling?

Minnesota and Wisconsin are way ahead when it comes to recycling. The state recycling laws prevent residents from throwing alkaline batteries into the trash. They instead inform residents of either your Mail-in programs or the drop-off facility of your nearest recycling center. Recycle Technologies is the only Midwest recycler offering a mail-in program that anyone can use. This allows you to recycle alkaline batteries from the comfort of your home. To learn how you can make a difference, follow this link. It will guide you on how to package your spent batteries and send them to our recycling facility.

Why is disposal viable for responsive Alkaline Battery recycling?

Mercury was previously present in batteries to prevent corrosion. The 1996 law lists that all batteries with mercury in them need to be phased out, and at the same time, recycling for nickel-cadmium should be allowed. To learn more, click here. This legislation helped create Call 2 Recycle, a non-profit organization that advocates and provides information to consumers who wish to recycle their electronics.

Why is Recycle Technologies Inc your solution for Alkaline Battery Recycling?

Recycle Technologies Inc advises consumers not to leave their batteries in their devices if they suspect they will be inactive for several months. These batteries present inside the device might leak. Also, we recommend not carrying them in your pocket as they may create a safety risk. They might overheat or rupture and become a hazard for you and the people around you.

Conclusion

As a safety precaution for our consumers, it is wise not to mix old batteries with new ones. Older batteries contain mercury, and newer ones don’t. This can become a severe consequence. And as always, do not recycle those batteries that are non-rechargeable. This will cause them to overheat or leak. To an average person, a battery is a battery. Our responsibility is to guide them about their dangers once their function ceases. The best thing you could do for mother earth is recycle your electronic waste responsibly. This way, you know that you have done the right thing.