Battery Recycling |
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The average household uses 21 batteries a year!
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An increasing number of householders recognise the residual value of spent batteries and their potential to harm the environment. To help residents dispose of their batteries responsibly, Warwickshire County Council have introduced battery recycling facilities at the majority of its Household Recycling Centres. Last year 306 tonnes of batteries were collected for recycling within the County.
Why recycle batteries?
A new European Directive comes into force in October 2006 which specifies the ways in which batteries must be produced and disposed of.
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The chemical make up of batteries varies from type to type but most batteries contain heavy metals which are the main cause for environmental concern.
When disposed of incorrectly these heavy metals may leak into the ground when the battery casing corodes. This can contribute to soil and water pollution and endanger wildlife.
What can you do?
- Use the mains when possible.
- Use rechargeable batteries and a battery charger. This saves energy because the energy needed to manufacture a battery is on average 50 times greater than the energy it gives out.
- Opt for appliances that can use power derived from the sun via solar panels or from a winding mechanism, e.g. radios, mobile phone wind-up chargers.
- Participate in Warwickshire County Council's battery collection schemes at your local Household Recycling Centres.
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