In the UK, people currently use over 600 million batteries every year – that’s an average of 21 per household. Yet a staggering 97 per cent of these end up in landfill - which means harmful chemicals can leak into the soil, damaging the environment.
However UK shoppers now have new and easy ways to recycle batteries. Many supermarkets and shops that sell batteries will have collection bins for used batteries. Look out for the Be Positive signs in shop windows and in stores to find these collection areas. Some town halls, libraries or schools may also have points.
These new facilities are a result of the EU Batteries Directive, which aims to increase recycling of household batteries to 25 per cent by 2012, and at least 45 per cent in 2016.
The Waste Batteries Regulations (2009) mean that most businesses and shops that supply batteries now have to offer collection points for them - any retailer supplying more than one pack of four AA batteries a day will have to comply.
Several local councils also collect batteries in the doorstep recycling collection, or provide bins at the local waste and recycling centre. Check with your local council to find out what battery recycling choices are available in your area.
Recycling your batteries will be a welcome boost for the environment. It can help save some of the earth’s natural resources and save on CO2 emissions by reducing the need to use new materials.
