Am I supposed to recycle alkaline (AA, C, D, 9 Volt) batteries?
Good question. Id like to start by stating I have worked in environmental and recycling industry for the past 10 years in which time I have also written numerous guidance documents for battery disposal. Of all the battery types out there your Alkaline tend to be the least hazardous and safest to manage. However, many recylcers do not take them because of the small volume of recoverable metal they contain. Many consumers will try to “recycle” these batteries, but typically if you return them or turn them in at a town “recycling day” event they will most likely end up in a landfill anyway – So you may save time and go directly to the trash at home. But please do note that this is for alkaline batteries only – Other battery types pose a great risk to the environment and should be recycled when possible (batteries such as Ni-Cad, Lithium, lead acid, etc). And one other point – Alkaline batteries used to contain mercury (this was made illegal back in 1986) so check you alkalines to ensure t
