Battery Recycling Options

So many electronic devices use them but what are we supposed to do with them when they are past their best?

Batteries - An electrical battery is one or more electrochemical cells that convert stored chemical energy into electrical energy. (Wikipedia.org)

Because there are so many batteries being used each year we have installed new battery recycling stations. It all stated just before Christmas when I received a call from an older gentleman who was constantly having to replace his hearing aid batteries.

Up until now the only disposal option has been in your general rubbish or through the HazMobile collection for household hazardous waste held in November each year.

We have begun battery disposal trials at three sites; Hastings District Council Customer Service Centre, Henderson Road Recycling Depot and the Hawke’s Bay Environment Centre. The receptacles are small wheelie bins with a hole drilled in the top that allows for batteries up to size “D”.

Once collected the batteries are sorted into two types, recyclable (Ni-CD, Ni-MH and Lithium) and disposable. The usable batteries are sent away to be recycled and the others are encased in concrete before being buried in the landfill. Unfortunately this is the only option for them here in NZ.

So spread the word amongst friends, family and neighbours to use this new service.