We’ve long been conditioned to separate our recyclables from regular trash and sort plastics, paper and more. But some items don’t belong in your recycle bin or your trashcan.
Many items you use every day have their own methods of safe disposal. Here are some everyday things and their proper way of disposal.
1. Household batteries
Batteries can be broken down into two broad categories: Single-use and rechargeable. Read on for examples of each and links to recycling or waste disposal resources.
Disposable
- Standard alkaline batteries (AA, AAA, 9 volts) that power your remote control, flashlight, clocks and other common household items can usually be thrown away in the trash. But check with local battery recyclers or state solid waste authorities to be safe.
- Button cell or coin batteries, which you’ll find in calculators, watches, hearing aids and car key fobs, can contain silver and mercury and should not be thrown away in the trash. They can be brought to battery recyclers or participating retailers that provide battery takeback services.
Rechargeable
- Lithium-ion and nickel-cadmium batteries are most commonly found in cellphones, laptops, tablets, digital cameras, power tools and smart toys. These batteries should never be tossed in the trash or recycle bin. They must be taken to separate recycling or household hazardous waste (HHW) collection centers.
- Small sealed lead acid batteries are found in emergency devices, security systems, mobility scooters and other special-use items. These also need to be taken to special disposal centers.
To find more recycling and disposal information, go to this resource page at Earth911. Simply select the type of battery from the left drop-down menu, enter your ZIP code and you’ll get local solutions. Note that stores like Staples, Home Depot and Best Buy have battery dropoff programs.
2. Car batteries
Car batteries contain lead and acid, a severe environmental risk to humans and animals.
If you replace your battery at an auto shop, they should take the old one and dispose of it for you. This is the law in some jurisdictions and applies to retailers who sell car batteries, even if they don’t sell you one or install one for you.
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