Methods of Discarding Batteries

Batteries are a convenient, portable way to provide power to just about anything in our lives, from massive trucks to tiny whirring toys. Most people would think nothing of tossing a battery in the trash when it's depleted, but that may not be an environmentally friendly way to dispose of them: batteries can link poisonous metals and chemicals into the soil and water supply. Use different methods for discarding batteries depending on the type.

Car Batteries

• Car batteries are large lead-acid batteries. Lead is a very toxic metal that can be very harmful to the environment. You should bring these batteries to a household hazardous waste collection site so they can be handled properly. You can find recycling centers near you at the Earth911 website. The centers reclaim the lead and plastic and send it to a new battery manufacturer. Battery Council International claims that more than 97 percent of all battery lead ends up being recycled, compared to 55 percent of aluminum cans. A new lead-acid battery usually contains between 60 and 80 percent recycled lead and plastic.

Button Cell and Disposable Lithium Batteries

• Button cell batteries, used in watches and hearing aids, and disposable lithium batteries, which offer more voltage than an alkaline battery, are also hazardous and you should dispose of them carefully. Bring these to a household hazardous waste collection site as well so the center can dispose of and recycle them properly.

Nonhazardous Batteries

• Alkaline, lithium ion, nickel metal hydride and carbon zinc are all nonhazardous batteries and make up familiar types of batteries: AAA, AA and D batteries that you put in electronics. It is OK to put these types of batteries in the garbage as they are generally not toxic to the environment, but it still might be a good idea to recycle them at your nearest recycling center. You can even use the recycle-by-mail system that Battery Solutions offers.