Recycling Batteries
- Nov 8, 2017
- 1 min read
When people think about recycling, they typically think about recycling things such as paper and plastic. What many people do not realize is that batteries can be recycled too.
Did you know that the state of California is the only state in which it is illegal to throw any type of battery in the trash?! Although it is not illegal in other states, it is still important to look up the laws in your area about disposing batteries.
Single-use batteries contain a number of materials that are recyclable. Each individual battery contains a small amount of reusable material, including zinc, manganese and steel. Batteries also can have some amount of lead or sulfuric acid, which is dangerous to a person’s health if exposed.
If batteries are not properly disposed or recycled, the toxic substances and materials in it can easily put everyone at risk.
Luckily for North Central College students and staff, we have a battery and electronic recycling bin located in the Wentz Science Center. This bin gets taken to The Household Hazardous Waste facility in Naperville where they recycle batteries and other electronics properly.
By recycling batteries we reap many rewards:
· Reduction in waste sent to landfills
· Prevents metals from reacting to rain water and seeping into landfill toxins
· Reduces greenhouse gas emissions
· Once materials are recycled, they can be reused to create new products
If you would like to recycle batteries or other hazardous household items of your own, you can go to The Household Hazardous Waste facility at 156 Fort Hill Dr. Naperville, IL 60540. They are open Saturdays and Sundays from 9am to 2pm.
Comments