What is battery recycling?
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), batteries contain heavy metals that can contaminate the environment if not recycled. Many states have adopted specific legislation to mandate battery recycling.RecyclingThe first step in battery recycling is separating batteries from other common household products. Labels on the battery should be examined for further instructions detailing how to dispose of or recycle them properly.TypesLead acid batteries are recycled with the help of a hammer mill that breaks the battery into smaller pieces. The plastic and metal pieces are then separated in a vat, and the liquids are drained off.Fun FactAccording to the EPA, up to 3 billion dry cell batteries are purchased every year by Americans.WarningImproper disposal of batteries can produce water pollution, air pollution and skin or eye burns.Prevention/SolutionPurchasing rechargeable batteries can reduce the number of batteries that end up in hazardous landfills.
