Recycle and Recharge Your Batteries

If you take a quick look around your house, chances are you will find dozens of battery- operated items. What happens to these batteries after they are used?

They usually end up in our landfill creating millions of pounds of trash. They make up 88% of the mercury found in our landfills. This mercury eventually makes its way into our soil, drinking water, and our environment. This mercury that we eventually can ingest causes havoc in our immune system.

So what is the solution? For one, you can try and stop buying an excess of items that require batteries. I have almost stopped buying battery-operated toys for my son. If it is something he absolutely wants, I will buy a set of rechargeable batteries along with the toy.

Two, buy a battery recharger. You can purchase them at any hardware or large retail store. They are about $20-$30 dollars. Most of them have the capacity to recharge any type of battery including 9-volt. Make sure to look for this option. Then purchase the rechargeable batteries, as you need them. Yes, they may seem more expensive to buy the compared to the non-rechargeable batteries but it will save you money in the long run. I am still using the rechargeable batteries I bought five years ago. And I haven’t bought batteries in about two years. I have saved about $60 a year.

Three recycle your batteries- everything from your AA’s to your car battery. Find your local center online or in your phonebook. Batteries are actually completely recyclable when handled properly, which means everything in them can be used and reused. Most hardware stores recycle batteries for you and have a drop off center. You can recycle your batteries while buying your fertilizer. This means cleaner landfills and a clearer conscience. With your simple act, you can help to ensure a safer environment for the future.